AI pilots back Vistara colleagues, tell Chandra problem is systemic
The group's other pilots have raised concern over the Vistara problem and said it is a systemic problem
Two groups of pilots in Air India have written a letter to group chairman N Chandrasekharan flagging the issues faced by pilots in the group’s aviation business. They said the problems raised by Vistara pilots are not isolated but are part of systemic issues.
The Indian Commercial Pilots’ Association (ICPI) and the Indian Pilots’ Guild (IPG) urged the group to engage in a constructive discussion with the pilots.
For the past few days, Vistara has been forced to cancel more than 100 flights due to non-availability of pilots who are protesting against pay revision and other issues.
“After thorough assessment and consultation, we firmly believe that their demands are not only reasonable but also reflective of broader challenges prevalent within Tata Group airlines,” the letter said.
Tata Group has four airline ventures — Air India, Air India Express, AIX Connect (formerly AirAsia India), and Vistara. IPG represents Air India pilots operating the airlines’ wide-body fleet while ICPA represents pilots operating the single aisle aircraft.
The pilots of Vistara have been steadfast in their advocacy for fixed 70 hours compensation, improved working conditions, and stable roster, the letter said.
“By addressing the concerns raised by the Vistara pilots, Tata Group can demonstrate its commitment to fostering a culture of fairness, transparency and employee welfare across all its aviation ventures, which is missing at the moment,” the letter said.