MUMBAI, INDIA – Air India’s budget airline faced a significant setback as dozens of flights were canceled due to hundreds of cabin crew members calling in sick, marking a new challenge for the flag carrier acquired by conglomerate Tata Sons in 2022.
On Wednesday, the airline had to delay or cancel 87 flights after approximately 300 out of the carrier’s 2,600 cabin crew members called in sick the previous evening. Management reportedly struggled to react to the situation, as the absent crew members had turned off their mobile phones.
The mass sick leave occurred amidst ongoing demands from staff for improved working conditions at Air India. Acknowledging the issue, a spokesperson for Air India Express mentioned that efforts were being made to address the situation and minimize the inconvenience caused to passengers.
Tata’s endeavors to revamp its aviation business and revitalize the struggling Air India have faced numerous obstacles, including the recent staffing crisis. The conglomerate, which acquired the debt-laden national carrier from the government, has outlined plans to merge Vistara with Air India and Air India Express with AIX Connect. Additionally, new aircraft are being purchased to modernize the existing fleet.
In a previous incident, pilots at Vistara had called in sick due to concerns over fatigue and inadequate compensation, resulting in flight reductions and expressions of solidarity from Air India employees. The implementation of merit-based performance contracts by Tata has led to dissatisfaction among many staff members, according to independent aviation analyst Neelam Mathews.
Originally established by Tata in 1932 and later nationalized, Air India has faced financial challenges for years. Following its acquisition by Tata, the carrier’s new chief executive, Campbell Wilson, has been tasked with the monumental job of turning around the airline, which had been incurring substantial daily losses.
Tata’s ambitious goal to elevate Air India to global prominence and rival major aviation hubs will require significant time and a multi-faceted approach. Despite the challenges inherited by Tata, the conglomerate remains committed to the long-term revitalization of the airline, recognizing the complexities of the aviation industry compared to their other business ventures.