Why pilots are worried about Air India's latest scheme
What's the story
Air India is planning to introduce a controversial voluntary "flexi contract model." The move would allow widebody pilots to work just 15 days a month and narrowbody crews for 20 days. The decision has raised eyebrows in the aviation industry amid cost pressures and an increase in pilot numbers. The scheme will be implemented in two phases between January and March 2026.
Pilot apprehensions
Concerns over potential pay cuts and permanent changes
The new contract model will not apply to Boeing 787 pilots and Delhi-based crew flying Boeing 777 aircraft. While Air India has described the scheme as voluntary, pilots are concerned it could be a cost-cutting measure that may reduce their earnings by up to 40%. They also fear this could become a permanent feature of their employment.
Airline's stance
Airline's official statement on the flexi contract model
An Air India spokesperson confirmed the development, calling it a "voluntary offer to its pilots operating certain aircraft types to opt for a lesser number of working days with commensurate payments." The airline said this offer is entirely voluntary and would fulfill some pilots' long-standing desire for more personal time. However, pilots have criticized the rationale behind this model, claiming it would further reduce their income.
Income reduction
Pilot compensation complexities and concerns
The flexi model is expected to reduce pay by 30% for narrowbody pilots and up to 40% for widebody pilots, especially those on ultra-long-haul flights. "It is simply a cost-cutting attempt," one pilot said, questioning why the offer was not for 40 hours payment in 15 days. Pilot compensations usually include a base salary, allowances not linked to flying, plus flying hour allowances with the airlines guaranteeing a minimum number of paid hours monthly.
Workforce expansion
Air India's pilot workforce and expansion plans
As of March this year, Air India employed 3,280 pilots. The airline operates a fleet of 174 aircraft, including 33 Boeing 787s. After privatization in 2022, Air India placed one of the largest aircraft orders in history from Boeing and Airbus. Parliamentary data shows the airline will need around 5,870 pilots over the next decade to support its planned expansion.
Worrying
Contradictions in airline's approach raise concerns
Industry norms require different pilot complements based on aircraft type. However, pilots have raised concerns over contradictions in the airline's approach. "Airlines are discouraging pilots from taking jobs abroad, yet they're offering flexible contracts that reduce flying hours and pay," one pilot said. They also questioned if the scheme could eventually become mandatory, given Air India's access to a large pool of pilots.