70 AI Express flights canceled; crew takes 'mass sick leave'
More than 70 Air India Express flights were canceled on Wednesday after the cabin crew members took a "massive sick leave," reports said. Official reports indicate that approximately 300 senior cabin crew members reported sick at the last minute and switched off their mobile phones—leading to the cancellation of up to 79 flights. The management of Air India Express is trying to communicate with the protesting crew—that has expressed dissatisfaction with the new employment terms at the Tata Group-owned airline.
Airline management responds
Amid the crisis, an Air India Express spokesperson said, "A section of our cabin crew has reported sick at the last minute, starting last night, resulting in flight delays and cancellations." "While we are engaging with the crew to understand the reasons behind these occurrences, our teams are actively addressing this issue to minimize any inconvenience caused to our guests as a result," the spokesperson added.
Affected passengers to be offered complimentary rescheduling
In response to the flight cancellations, Air India Express has offered affected passengers a full refund or complimentary rescheduling to another date. Meanwhile, several passengers took to their social media accounts and complained about the sudden cancellations of their flights. They said that they had "no information" about the cancellations. Some "very disappointed" passengers on X (formerly Twitter) said that they had reached the airport when they were informed that their flights were canceled.
Allegations of mismanagement
This incident follows allegations made last month by the Air India Express Employees Union (AIXEU). The union claimed that mismanagement and lack of equality in staff treatment were prevalent within the airline, negatively impacting employee morale. In December 2023, the Union labor ministry issued a show cause notice to Air India Express for alleged violations related to disputes between management and cabin crew members.
