While escalating tension between Air India Express and its employees, the airline has taken a strong step forward by terminating employees. More than 30 cabin crew members who have been part of Mass Sick Leave have been terminated, this action came after nearly 300 employees called in sick and switched off their phones, resulting in the cancellation of 76 flights and widespread inconvenience for passengers.
As per the reports, the number of terminations can increase as Air India Express management has issued an ultimatum, demanding employees return to work by 4 pm today or face the consequences. The ongoing disruption has underscored a growing crisis for the low-cost carrier, which operates as a subsidiary of Air India under the ownership of Tata Group.
Reports suggest, that new employment terms have been the main cause behind this mass protest and have raised discontent among employees. Certain allegations of inequality in staff treatment have surfaced, with some claiming to have been offered lower job roles despite qualifying for senior positions. Additionally, modification to compensation packages has also created tensions within the workforce.
In response, the Air India Express spokesperson stated that management is actively engaging with crew members to address grievances and minimise disruptions to passengers. A meeting with the crew members is expected to take place today as ongoing efforts to resolve the situation.
Also Read: Air India Faces Major Disruptions Due To Cabin Crew Sick Leave.
In the termination letters issued to the dismissed crew member allege a coordinated effort to disrupt services, that comes in violation of both company rules and applicable laws, citing their mass sick leave as an unjustifiable absentation from work.
Meanwhile, the Air India Express Employee Union (AIXEU) has raised concerns over what it perceives as a turn from previous commitments by management. The airline’s denial of recognition of any employee unions has further complicated the situation.
Apart from this, the regional labour commissioner has also intervened, acknowledging the genuine grievances of the staff. The commissioner has called for the establishment of a high-level committee to address the same and further examine the functioning of the HR department.
