A group of pilots from Akasa Air has written to India’s Civil Aviation Ministry, seeking an investigation into the airline’s hiring practices, rostering issues, and operational lapses. In their letter, addressed to Civil Aviation Minister K. Rammohan Naidu, Civil Aviation Secretary, and Director General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), the pilots raised serious concerns regarding the airline’s internal operations.
The pilots allege that there are significant problems with crew attendance and the accurate reporting of On-Time Performance (OTP). They claim that some operating crew members fail to report to work on time, disrupting flight schedules and operational efficiency. Furthermore, they raised concerns over what they described as inconsistent and haphazard rostering practices, which they argue is negatively impacting the airline’s overall performance.
The pilots’ letter also highlights allegations of irregularities in the airline’s hiring practices. According to the email, recruitment at Akasa Air is being carried out in an arbitrary manner, based on the preferences of a select group, rather than established standards and protocols. The pilots have urged the Civil Aviation Ministry to investigate these practices to ensure fairness and transparency in the airline’s operations.
This is not the first time Akasa Air has faced regulatory scrutiny. In recent months, the airline has been under investigation by the DGCA for various operational and safety concerns. Earlier in March 2024, the DGCA revoked the Line Training Captain approval of an Akasa Air pilot for lapses during a landing incident involving a passenger aircraft. Additionally, in December 2024, the DGCA imposed a six-month suspension on the airline’s director of operations and director of training for alleged lapses in pilot training.
In October 2024, the DGCA also imposed a fine of Rs 30 lakh on Akasa Air for deficiencies in crew training.
The airline, which has been operational for over two years, has yet to comment on the latest allegations. However, in the past, Akasa Air has rejected similar concerns raised by its pilots, dismissing them as unsubstantiated.
As the DGCA continues to monitor Akasa Air’s operations, the airline’s internal challenges remain a point of concern, with safety and operational standards under increasing scrutiny. The outcome of the ongoing investigations into the airline’s hiring practices and internal management could significantly impact its reputation and operations in the competitive Indian aviation market.
Sources By Agencies