The Aryavarth Express
Agency(New Delhi): In response to the escalating issue of flight cancellations and delays faced by Vistara, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has intervened, requiring the airline to provide daily reports on the matter. This move comes as Vistara struggles with operational hurdles, primarily due to a significant number of pilots calling in sick, a situation that has led to the cancellation of over 50 flights on a single day.
The root of these disruptions lies in a growing discontent among Vistara pilots, particularly following the introduction of new contracts. These contracts, part of the ongoing merger process with Air India, are said to adjust the salary structure, diminishing the fixed pay component in favor of more flight-linked incentives. This adjustment has not sat well with the pilots, prompting some to report sick in protest, which in turn has significantly impacted Vistara’s flight operations.
The civil aviation ministry has also taken notice of the situation, although it clarified that flight operations are managed by airlines themselves. Nonetheless, airlines are required to adhere to DGCA norms, particularly in providing adequate facilitation to passengers affected by cancellations or delays. The DGCA’s oversight aims to ensure minimal inconvenience to passengers during this turbulent period.
Vistara, a joint venture between Tata Group and Singapore Airlines, has acknowledged the issue, attributing recent flight disruptions to various factors, including the unavailability of crew members. In an attempt to manage the situation, the airline has decided to reduce its number of flights temporarily. Additionally, Vistara is resorting to deploying larger aircraft on select domestic routes to accommodate more passengers and combine flights wherever feasible.
As Vistara navigates through these challenges, the focus remains on maintaining network connectivity and minimizing the impact on passengers. With the summer schedule underway, the airline aims to operate over 300 flights daily, despite the ongoing disruptions. The situation underscores the complexities involved in the merger process with Air India and the need for effective communication and resolution strategies to address employee concerns and ensure operational stability.