Pilot Compensation Dispute Sparks Flight Cancellations At Vistara

Vistara CEO Vinod Kannan, alongside HR and other senior officials, held virtual meetings with all pilots regarding compensation issues, CNBC-TV18 sources report. Concrete details are pending. Nearly 100 flights have been cancelled this week due to pilot absences and other crew-related issues.

According to a Times of India report, the airline cancelled over 60 flights on 2 April, with Mumbai bearing the brunt. Vistara cancelled 14 departures and 17 arrivals from Mumbai, including international routes to Paris and Male. Passengers with international connections from Delhi and Mumbai were significantly impacted, with Kolkata experiencing one cancellation and multiple delays.

The airline has not issued a statement regarding the disruptions, which coincide with the beginning of the summer season, typically marked by increased air travel during school holidays.

Recent reports indicate that at least 15 senior first officers resigned due to disputes over pay revisions. Some pilots are discontent with the airline's new contract, which reduces their compensation, sources reveal.

Following the widespread chaos on 2 April, the aviation ministry demanded Vistara's response regarding flight cancellations.

CNBC-TV18 interviewed Sivaraman, former Director General of Civil Aviation, and Sanjay Lazar, an aviation expert. Sivaraman noted that unrest has been brewing since early March, with pilots expressing dissatisfaction over reduced flying allowances. He emphasised the airline's need to promptly address pilot grievances.

Lazar echoed the importance of dialogue between the airline and its pilots, expressing concerns that salary reductions could demoralize the workforce.

Both experts advocated for finding a middle ground to ensure smooth flight operations and passenger satisfaction.