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Air India Express has faced a significant disruption as over 100 flights were cancelled due to a “mass sick leave” by the cabin crew, affecting both international and domestic routes. The unexpected cancellations came after approximately 300 senior cabin crew members reported sick at the last minute and turned off their mobile phones, leaving passengers stranded and confused.
The management of Air India Express, owned by the Tata Group, is currently grappling with the situation and attempting to communicate with the protesting crew members. Sources indicate that the crew’s protest is rooted in dissatisfaction with new employment terms since the merger with Tata Group.
“A section of our cabin crew has reported sick at the last minute, resulting in flight delays and cancellations. While we are engaging with the crew to understand the reasons behind these occurrences, our teams are actively addressing this issue to minimise any inconvenience caused to our guests as a result,” stated an Air India Express spokesperson.
Passengers impacted by the cancellations are being offered full refunds or the option to reschedule their flights without additional charges, as per the airline’s statement.
Social media platforms witnessed an influx of complaints from passengers who were caught off guard by the sudden flight cancellations. Many expressed frustration at the lack of prior information about the disruptions.
In response to one passenger’s complaint, Air India Express acknowledged the inconvenience caused and cited “operational reasons” for the cancellations.
The crux of the crew’s protest revolves around allegations of unequal treatment and changes to compensation packages post-merger with Tata Group. Crew members claim that some of them were offered lower positions despite clearing interviews, and critical elements of their compensation packages were altered or removed without adequate consultation.
Furthermore, there are assertions that dissenting voices within the airline’s workforce are being suppressed by the management.
This incident at Air India Express comes at a time when the airline is also in the process of merging AIX Connect (formerly AirAsia India) into its operations. The turbulence within the airline echoes recent troubles faced by Vistara, another Tata Group subsidiary, which witnessed cancellations due to pilot discontentment over contract terms and rostering issues.
Sources By Agencies
