AI pilots unions inform Chairman that the demands made by Vistara pilots are indicative of larger issues facing Tata Group airlines

Following Vistara’s decision to merge with Air India, the two pilots’ unions representing Air India, the India Commercial Pilot Association (ICPA) and the Indian Pilots’ Guild (IPG), have joined the pilots’ protest against the new contract. They have informed Tata Group Chairman N. Chandrasekaran that the issue “reflects broader challenges” facing the group’s aviation businesses.

“Vistara pilots have remained unwavering in their support of a stable roster, better working conditions, and a set 70-hour remuneration. The unions sent Chandrasekaran a letter on Thursday stating, “After careful consideration and consultation, we firmly believe that their demands are not only reasonable but also reflective of broader challenges prevalent within Tata Group airlines.”

Additionally, they said that the worries raised by the Vistara pilots are not unique occurrences but rather a sign of systemic problems that affect other aviation businesses under the Tata Group.

The letter said that pilots at all Tata Group airlines “consistently echoed the issues of 70 hours fixed remuneration, approval of leaves, adequate rest periods, unstable roster, stretching pilots to max flight duty, botched roster practices and an unsupportive work environment.”

The pilots are allegedly being treated in ways that are “reminiscent of bonded laborers,” according to the unions.

“HR has threatened pilots in the past, citing serious penalties and even interruptions to their future. It is immoral and creates a hostile and frightening work atmosphere to threaten pilots with interruptions to their future. The use of such coercive techniques by HR, which ought to be an employee support system, is really alarming, they said.

According to the letter, pilots who experience intimidation or fear may be unwilling to voice concerns about safety or anything that might affect flight operations.

It said, “This should not be taken lightly as it poses a significant risk to the safety of our passengers and crew members.”

“We urge the Tata Group leadership to have productive discussions with the pilot community, pay close attention to their comments, and act quickly to resolve their justifiable complaints. Tata Group can show that it is committed to promoting an environment of equity, openness, and worker welfare across all of its aviation endeavors by resolving the issues brought up by the Vistara pilots.