Air India Express, a subsidiary of Air India now owned by the Tata group, has taken drastic action in the wake of disruptions caused by a mass sick leave by its employees. At least 30 cabin crew members have been sacked, with the possibility of further terminations looming, after nearly 300 employees called in sick and switched off their phones, leading to the cancellation of 76 flights.
The management has issued an ultimatum to the employees to return to work by 4 pm or face consequences. These developments come amidst protests by the crew against new employment terms, alleging unfair treatment and modifications in their compensation package.
According to sources, the crew has raised concerns about the lack of equality in staff treatment, with some allegedly being offered lower job roles despite clearing interviews for senior positions. These issues have exacerbated tensions at a time when the airline is undergoing a merger with AIX Connect (formerly AirAsia India).
This crisis adds to recent troubles faced by the Tata group, following disruptions at its full-service carrier Vistara due to protests by pilots over various issues.
An Air India Express spokesperson stated that the management is engaging with the crew to address the reasons behind the mass leave and minimize inconvenience to passengers. The airline plans to hold a townhall with cabin crew members to resolve the situation.
The termination letters issued to the crew members cited a “pre-meditated and concerted abstention from work without any justifiable reason,” leading to severe disruptions, embarrassment, and financial losses for the company.
The Air India Express Employees Union (AIXEU) has accused the airline of mismanagement and unequal treatment of staff, although the airline does not recognize any employees’ union. The regional labour commissioner has intervened, stating that the staff’s grievances are genuine and pointing out “blatant violations of labour laws.”
As the situation unfolds, stakeholders are closely watching the developments within Air India Express, hoping for a resolution that balances the interests of the company, its employees, and the passengers.
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