Air India is introducing a new framework for pilots who want to move up from senior first officer to commander.
Under the proposed system, eligible Air India pilots seeking a command upgrade on narrow-body aircraft would move to Air India Express.
The plan is based on a common seniority pool between the two airlines and is designed to create a clearer career path for pilots within the Air India Group.
Pilots Could Get ₹10 Lakh Bonus for Moving to Air India Express
Under the proposed framework, senior Air India first officers who transfer to Air India Express to fly Boeing 737 aircraft will receive a one-time ₹10 lakh bonus.
Existing Air India Express commanders flying these aircraft are also expected to receive ₹21 lakh over three years, according to sources.
These financial incentives are intended to make the transition more attractive while helping Air India Express build a larger pool of experienced commanders.
Two-Year Service Requirement After Becoming Commander
There is also a mandatory service condition under the proposed framework.
Once a pilot becomes a commander, they will have to work from the Air India Express operating base assigned to them for at least two years.
This period can be extended by another six months.
After completing the required period, pilots will be allowed to choose their preferred operating base, subject to the applicable eligibility conditions.
The arrangement is intended to give Air India Express more experienced commanders while providing pilots with a defined route for career progression.
Air India Group Has More Than 5,500 Pilots
Air India currently has more than 3,500 pilots, while Air India Express has over 2,000 pilots.
Together, the two airlines operate a fleet of around 300 aircraft.
Air India does not operate Boeing 737 aircraft, while Air India Express operates both Boeing 737 and Airbus A320 family aircraft.
The move is particularly aimed at increasing the number of commanders available for Boeing 737 aircraft, especially as more narrow-body planes are expected to join the fleet.
Why Are Some Pilots Concerned?
While Air India is presenting the framework as a way to provide pilots with better career opportunities, some pilots have reportedly raised concerns about the proposed transfers.
The framework was communicated to pilots during a town hall meeting by Air India’s Head of Operations, Manish Uppal.
Some pilots reportedly received letters on Air India Express letterhead regarding the proposed transfer.
One pilot alleged that employees were being pressured to accept the transfer letters because they would no longer remain on Air India’s payroll.
The pilot described the arrangement as being similar to a forced resignation.
Airlines Competing for Experienced Pilots
The new framework comes at a time when airlines are competing strongly for experienced pilots.
Sources have pointed to factors such as pilot attrition, lower flying hours and aggressive hiring by competing airlines as some of the reasons behind the changes.
The Air India Group is also expected to receive more narrow-body aircraft in the near future, while its wide-body fleet is expected to grow in the coming years.
The new structure is therefore aimed at strengthening the group’s internal pilot pipeline while ensuring that Air India Express has enough experienced commanders to support its growing fleet.
