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Air India is preparing to implement a new layover policy for its cabin crew on both domestic and international routes, mandating that certain crew members share accommodation during layovers. This policy will extend to Air India Express, which recently merged with AIX Connect, as reported by news agency PTI, citing an inside source.
In conjunction with this change, the international flight crew allowances will see an increase, rising from the current range of USD 75-125 to USD 85-135. However, domestic flight crew allowances will remain unchanged. A spokesperson for the airline explained that with the merger of Air India and Vistara, there is a necessity to align policies across both entities.
The spokesperson further stated, “As part of this harmonization process, we have communicated the policy changes to Air India employees. The revised compensation and benefits packages remain competitive and are aligned with industry standards.” According to the source, under the new policy, all cabin crew, with the exception of in-flight managers and executives, will be required to share rooms during layovers.
In-flight managers and executives typically hold senior positions, with at least 8-9 years of experience. While room-sharing arrangements are already in place at Air India Express and Vistara, this is the first time such a practice will be introduced at Air India, which is owned by the Tata Group and continues to operate at a loss.
These policy adjustments are also occurring in the context of ongoing concerns raised by a section of Air India Express cabin crew regarding HR-related issues, which are currently under review by the Central Labour Commissioner. Meanwhile, the Air India spokesperson highlighted the airline's introduction of a performance-linked compensation and benefits policy for all employees in April 2023.
The merger of AIX Connect with Air India Express was officially completed on October 1, while the integration of Vistara into Air India is expected to conclude next month.
