Air India’s ‘Flexi Contract’ Plan Sparks Pilot Concerns Over Pay Cuts and Job Security

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Air India’s proposed voluntary ‘flexi contract’ scheme has stirred unease among its pilots. The plan, set to roll out in early 2026, offers reduced flying days with proportional pay. While positioned as a lifestyle-friendly option, pilots fear significant income loss and worry it may become a permanent cost-cutting measure.

Turbulence Ahead: Air India’s Flexi Contract Model Raises Eyebrows Among Pilots

Air India is preparing to launch a controversial ‘flexi contract’ scheme for its cockpit crew, offering pilots the option to work fewer days per month for reduced pay. While the airline describes it as a voluntary lifestyle choice, many pilots view it as a disguised cost-cutting strategy that could erode earnings and job stability.

The scheme will be implemented in two phases between January and March 2026, and is currently limited to select aircraft types.

Key Highlights of the Flexi Contract Proposal:

Reduced Flying Days

Widebody pilots will be scheduled for 15 days per month, while narrowbody pilots will work 20 days.

This marks a further drop from the post-privatization average of 50–55 flying hours, down from 90 hours pre-COVID.

Selective Implementation

The scheme will not apply to Boeing 787 pilots or Delhi-based crew flying Boeing 777 aircraft, indicating a phased and targeted rollout.

Voluntary Yet Controversial

Air India insists the offer is entirely voluntary, aimed at giving pilots more personal time.

However, pilot unions and insiders fear it could reduce earnings by up to 40% for widebody pilots and 30% for narrowbody pilots.

Concerns Over Permanence

Many pilots worry the scheme could eventually become mandatory, altering employment terms permanently.

There’s also concern that it may impact career progression and retirement benefits.

Industry Context

The move comes amid rising pilot numbers and cost pressures as Air India expands its fleet and routes under the Tata Group’s ownership.

Aviation experts suggest the scheme may help optimize crew utilization, but caution against undermining pilot morale.

Airline’s Statement

An Air India spokesperson confirmed the scheme, calling it a “voluntary offer to pilots operating certain aircraft types to opt for fewer working days with commensurate payments.”

As Air India charts its transformation journey, the flexi contract model may test the balance between operational efficiency and employee trust.

Sources: Hindustan Times, NewsBytes

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