GURGUGRAM- Vistara (UK) CEO Vinod Kannan met with the airline’s pilots on Wednesday to ensure that operations would return to normal by the weekend.
Additionally, he pledged to address roster concerns to maintain a better work-life balance for the pilots. An airline official stated, “Kannan has committed to resolving roster issues to enhance stability in work-life balance.
Kanan Apologizes to Pilots for Flight Disruptions
The CEO of the airline held a 30-minute meeting exclusively with the pilots. According to officials briefed on the matter, he also separately met with the cabin crew, engineers, and other departments.
As per informed officials, Kannan apologized to the pilots for flight disruptions, which prompted management to require them to work even on their days off. He acknowledged concerns regarding roster mismanagement and appealed for the pilots’ support.
Additionally, Kannan cited air traffic issues, engine problems, and bird strikes as exacerbating factors, according to a second airline official.
“The CEO noted that, as is typical every March, there is a higher incidence of pilots taking sick leave as the financial year ends. However, the airline could have managed the situation more effectively,” the official further elaborated.
Pilot Crisis
The CEO explained that the disruption occurred due to a shortage of pilots, causing operations to become strained, and the situation escalated due to delays on Saturday.
Regarding the new pay structure, which will reduce co-pilots’ flying time from 70 to 40 hours per month and adjustments to monthly salaries, the CEO stated that it primarily aimed to benefit the entire community.
Pilots also inquired about their status within the airline following the merger with Air India (AI).
“Vistara will maintain communication with Air India to ensure the implementation of the seniority list. There was no resistance from the pilots during the town hall, and the CEO addressed all inquiries. He also encouraged pilots to contact him directly if they had any concerns about the new contracts,” the official concluded.
Feature Image by: Harsh Tekriwal (@avgeekwithlens) • Instagram photos and videos
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