Air India Express Pilots Seek Income Security in New Pay Offer

Air India Express pilots are raising significant concerns over a new compensation proposal set to take effect in October 2026. Their main worry revolves around income security, as the revised structure guarantees only 40 hours of block pay, a sharp reduction from the previous 70 hours.

The new compensation package from Air India Express includes higher monthly pay and revised productivity rates. Senior Commanders and Commanders of Boeing 737 aircraft could potentially receive up to Rs 21 lakh, while Senior First Officers might earn up to Rs 10 lakh in allowances. These allowances will be disbursed in three equal installments over a period of three years, alongside a new narrow-body allowance of Rs 25,000 for P1 pilots and Rs 10,000 for P2 pilots.

Concerns Over Income Predictability

Pilots are deeply concerned that additional earnings under this proposal hinge entirely on monthly aircraft utilization, which the airline controls. They argue this arrangement unfairly transfers operational risks onto the flight crew, moving away from the pre-Covid structure that ensured 70 hours of fixed pay. The reduction to 40 hours of guaranteed pay, initially a pandemic-era measure, is now feared to become a permanent fixture.

Disputed Leave and Operational Pay

Another point of contention involves leave provisions, effective from April 1, 2027, proposing 24 Privilege Leave days, 12 Sick Leave days, and 6 Casual Leave days. Flight crews fear that taking Privilege Leave could directly cut into their variable earnings due to fewer flying hours, diminishing the financial benefit of paid time off. Pilot representatives are also seeking clarity on compensation for various duties, including positioning, waiting time, critical airfield operations, and night duties.

They have also highlighted a proposed six-day reduction in Privilege Leave and raised questions regarding the handling of Sick Leave and Privilege Leave. Further clarification is sought on taxation details and repayment terms associated with retention bonuses. Revised offer letters were to be issued by August 14, with pilots required to accept by August 28.

Ultimately, while the new offer presents higher headline compensation, pilots are prioritizing consistent, predictable income and fair treatment regarding leave. Their focus remains on ensuring a transparent and equitable allocation of operational risks within the company.