Air India Express clips wings of striking employees by termination; flights cancelled; Air India steps in

Air India Express News Today: Two days after many of Air India Express employees went on mass sick leaves, triggering cancellation of flights, the airline took a stern action, terminating many of the striking employees on Wednesday (May 8, 2024). 

With 76 more cancellations today, Air India has offered its help to Air India Express on many routes.

In a letter written to a striking employee on Wednesday, Air India Express said that the employee was terminated for disturbing the operations by cartel and violating the terms and conditions of their appointment.

The airline has decided to keep flight operations smooth from Thursday and keep some flights cancelled to minimise further cancellations.

Aloke Singh, the CEO of Air India Express has called a town hall meeting on Thursday.

In a Letter written to all employees, the CEO has asked to discuss their problems openly.

He has urged the staff to reconsider the issue of mass sick leave and take a decision in favour of the company and passengers.

He wrote that the management ready for talks at every level.

Air India to help

The proposal for a meeting came on a day when as many as 74 Air India Express flights have been cancelled.

However, Air India said that it would help Air India Express on 20 routes.

“Air India Express is making every possible effort to minimise the inconvenience caused to our guests by this unexpected situation. We will be operating 292 flights today. We have mobilised all resources and Air India will support us by operating on 20 of our routes. However, 74 of our flights stand cancelled and we urge our guests booked to fly with us to check if their flight is affected by the disruption before heading to the airport. If their flight is cancelled, or delayed beyond 3 hours, they may opt for a full refund or reschedule to a later date without any fees on Tia on WhatsApp (+91 6360012345) or on airindiaexpress.com.

"While we will continue to engage with our cabin crew colleagues with a commitment to address any concern, we are taking appropriate steps against certain individuals as their actions have caused grave inconvenience to thousands of our guests."

Ultimatum to employees

Air India Express has also given an ultimatum to all employees on monthly leave to join duty as per roster by 4 pm.

The airline says that its management can take action if not done.

After the employees went on the strike, Labor Department has also called representatives of Air India Express.

The meeting of the two parties may take place today (Thursday).

AI Express may meet before the labor department officials before the airline's meeting with striking employees in a townhall meeting today.

The department will take updates from the management on the letters of the employees.