As per the latest report, Air India has stopped negotiating with the striking pilots and has taken them off the pay rolls. Also, the civil aviation minister has said that Air India will be unveiling a new business plan and strategy inorder to revitalize the maharaja. What would the 300 pilots do ??
Air India to unveil global biz plans today (http://business-standard.com/india/news/air-india-to-unveil-global-biz-plans-today/476456/)

Join the dole? I can't see the other airlines fighting with each other to take the strikers on....

AI has been looking for expats for the least few weeks to fill the ranks.

PT6A - If Air India or any Indian Carrier would hire someone who has 1250++ hrs on PT6A-sixty series and 2000++ hrs in the air with an Indian License. I would be the happiest. I promise I wont strike for 787 esp if I am flying a plane powered by the incredible GE90 :rolleyes: !!

Air India plans to hire pilots to run long-haul international operations - The Economic Times (http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/news-by-industry/transportation/airlines-/-aviation/air-india-plans-to-hire-pilots-to-run-long-haul-international-operations/articleshow/13852713.cms)

Now that is some good news. :D

Who in their right mind would go "scab" in India???:mad:

Scabs?? I guess you are still crossing a picket line but how different is is really when they are hiring expats anyway? Do you expect the current expats flying for air india to honor the strike also and refuse to fly?

Do you expect the current expats flying for air india to honor the strike also and refuse to fly?

Nope, just the ones that go there after the fact to specifically replace the dispute pilots...

The news says that AI will hire new pilots soon. That too- Co-pilots.

Any views on that? 100 new vacancies and 90 trainees to be fast tracked.

Is there going to be a fresh interview for these positions or the 737 TR guys applying before 11th June as per the already posted vacancies are going to fill these 100 positions?

I hope they consider freshers too..

What do you guys think?

I suspect they are looking for experienced wide body international folks to replace the fired strikers.....

I certainly hope nobody decides to go to Air India to replace these pilots. If you have pilots fighting for better conditions and you opt to go in and fly for them, you've lost the big picture, and deserved to be branded a scab.

I certainly hope nobody decides to go to Air India to replace these pilots. If you have pilots fighting for better conditions and you opt to go in and fly for them, you've lost the big picture, and deserved to be branded a scab.

Hear hear!!!!:ok:

I certainly hope nobody decides to go to Air India to replace these pilots. If you have pilots fighting for better conditions and you opt to go in and fly for them, you've lost the big picture, and deserved to be branded a scab.


Better conditions aka B787 instead of flying the B777 ?? Strike was an absolute disastrous decision they ve made during the peak Indian Holiday Season. There were various methods that could have been used to get their points across. Given the market conditions these guys dont realize the value of their job. The sad part is many of them have directly gone on to fly Jets after their flight school. Had they been flying instructors doing stalls a hundred times a day then flying dusty turbo props finally making it to regionals and followed by majors.. then that seat would have been truly earned. Asking for exclusive rights to B787 is ridiculous esp when there are so many bus drivers (ex IC) with 20000 hours + on the bus !! Its all about ego clashes !! The only sympathy they receive is because they were a part of Indian Pilots Guild.

Get the aircraft back in the air and get rid of those who do not appreciate that they have a job in these tough times!

I certainly hope nobody decides to go to Air India to replace these pilots. If you have pilots fighting for better conditions and you opt to go in and fly for them, you've lost the big picture, and deserved to be branded a scab.

Perhaps if you were well informed of the reason of the strike you would realize that it is not a strike, but rather tantamount to a child holding their breath until they turn blue.

These brats are not concerned with better conditions, but more so about who gets to play with the new toys first:*.

I suspect they are looking for experienced wide body international folks to replace the fired strikers.....

Where are they going to find wide body experienced folks from?
Have the KF drivers who wished to leave been absorbed elsewhere yet?

Most of all.. is any of this likely to translate into vacancies for fresher at all???

Where are they going to find wide body experienced folks from?
Have the KF drivers who wished to leave been absorbed elsewhere yet?

Most of all.. is any of this likely to translate into vacancies for fresher at all???

The only Indian Air Crew they can target are KFA's considering the 6 months rule in India for switching from one airline to another. I probably think they would target experienced Turbo Prop and probably Mini Bus FOs with a decent experience say 2000 hours ??


ps. I know I might receive fire for this post :E

The only Indian Air Crew they can target are KFA's considering the 6 months rule in India for switching from one airline to another. I probably think they would target experienced Turbo Prop and probably Mini Bus FOs with a decent experience say 2000 hours ?? I know you fall into that category GE90.. wishful huh??

I guess it makes sense. Best luck for that...

But what about the internal FOs..
Since they have plenty of experienced internal 737 FOs and an exam for fresh ones already arranged for next week, could there just be promotions and replacements?

Also.. I am hoping that absolute freshers might have a part to play... (Its AI..)

They are targeting British Airways, American Airlines, Continental etc etc etc that is who Air India via the agencies is on the the look out for. To say bye bye to the trouble makers in their ranks.

I know you fall into that category GE90.. wishful huh??


;) I believe I have paid my dues including hand flying entire 4.5 hour sectors at FL250 in RNP 5 environment and doing raw data ILS when RVR is 1000 meters gusting 35 knots & DU .. I want to RVSM now.

I dont know what Senior FOs with IX would choose command on B737 or upgrade on B777. I am not sure what position these guys are going to hire for ? Probably a relief/cruise first officer on 777 like cathay or FO on B737 ?? Also a few of the FOs with IX are also members of IPG so what is their plan of action ?? Have to wait and watch. :suspect:

Not that i care. But GE90, could you name ONE idiot in IC still flying, and with 20k plus hours on the bus. JUST ONE name will do. And i'm ok with initials too. Thx.

Mate, its not that I have a choice. Seriously.

I am guessing for starters the 90 expats that are coming of Jet would be a good place to start with say a 2 or 3 year contract. Second would be KF as a hunting ground. With their international routes gone should be a few on the benches.

I do hope AI HR this time pens in some strict clauses in new local hires.

For all those on strike i do hope they realize that they are toast post this and no one will touch them. Enough coffee shops openings lately so maybe they can look at that. Nil chance of chest thumping to be taken back

The ad is out ..

http://airindia.in/SBCMS/Downloads/Advertisement-Recruitment.pdf

CAPTAINS B737/747/777

Total Time : 5000 Hours.
Jet Time : 2000 Hours.
PIC on Type: 500 Hours.

First Officers B737/747/777

Total Time : 2500 Hours of Airline Jet Experience.
On Type : 500 Hours.

If I had that kind of experience I would be applying to EK/EY/QR and settle down for the next decade with a good job.

INDIAN ATPL is Compulsory for all positions.

Seriously Air India Management lacks Ground Reality of whats happening.

who in their senses would apply for a job in hell????NO LEAVE...NO ROSTER.....NO PAY......u gotta be joking dude!

They require a DGCA issued CPL/ ATPL- Indian citizens.

I think only AI operates 747s in India.
So who are they trying to poach from?

And who will leave the Jet 777s for AI?

This makes no sense.
I think they will have to amend the requirements at some point of time.

Cactus, they are also running adverts for expats, which of course don't have the Indian Licence requirement.

I think they are making this advertisement for sacked pilots. I remember Ajit Singh telling on news channel. This Pilots on AI can reapply if they wish. If this happens so they will loose seniority and will be working under their own juniors. That's government rule

The requirement states that the candidate needs a DGCA ATPL, CPL.. so how is it for expats?

It's just meant for all the ones who were on strike..

Air India pilots are the laughing stock of the airline pilot community. What a joke. :ugh::{:{:{ They should leave aviation and join Bollywood. :}

I can see why AI vacancies would be appealing. I guess if you are a Spicejet 737 driver with no prospects of significant international flying, an FO slot on an AI 777 would probably be appealing - at least for the type rating and experience. And then move abroad...

Sciolist= Iver

What do you know about SpiceJet 'drivers'? While impossible to verify, I can guarantee that not a SINGLE SpiceJet 'driver' will be applying to AI.

Although an RTI will probably back up my lofty claims. And I'm talking about the applications, as for you being a Mr. knowitall, we'll leave it for the rest to decide.:rolleyes:

Cactus, they run separate adverts for the expats. The expats get a totally different contract, requirements and pay package.

I Know, I know they run separate adverts for expats.

However, the buzz is that they were to recruit 100 Indian copilots with five year contracts. About a 100 expat commanders with a one year contract.

And we all know expats isn't a permanent solution. What with the DGCA policy to phase them out in two years..
I know it's not possible, but I really doubt if they will recruit any Expat copilots.. Seems unlikely.


Maybe a spicejet 737 driver could apply for one of these.. But they would just keep him on the 737 again. Why would AI spend on a 777 TR for a guy who can readily fly another with zero training cost.

Problem seems to be about the 777 747 copilots.
They are asking for time on type not willing to upgrade people.

The way I see it, only the strikers have enough experience for these posts.
Maybe it was all a gambit to bring lower their T&C and keep them going afterall..


I would infact be happy if 737 pilots from elsewhere switch..
As long as they leave some vacancies for me...

Don't you guys think that they might change the requirements before July 26?

I'm not exactly fond of A.I. or it's pilots but how can any of you judge them for going on strike? Are you that ignorant? They haven't been paid for 6 months! Yes, 6 months!!! My only question is why did they wait so long to strike?

India and Indians accept late pay, I get that. But 6 months late? GMAB! And some salary components are over 2 years late?

How are they whining when they have been treated so poorly by mgmt over the past 1-2 years? Is that whining or merely sending their employer a bill for services rendered? Please show us all your reaction after you haven't been paid what was promised to you after you already put the work in.

I'm presently writing letters to my government representatives asking that they suspend A.I.'s operating rights into my country as long as they refuse to make payroll. Any airline that gets to operate into the developed world without paying salary is simply not playing on a level field and needs to grow up before it can play in the big leagues.

I support the A.I. pilots in their quest to get what is rightfully theirs, already earned wages. Their directors and management should be jailed for theft.

India as a country should be ashamed of itself for allowing such complete and utter disgerard for safety, organization and basic human rights. Yeah, their becoming a major econcomic power... not in this decade, not with this kind of approach. Shame on that government... and on the people for tolerating such behavior by continuing to support the ailing carrier.

Anyone that accepts a job with A.I. while the pilots are on strike is a SCAB! You will be marked and you name will be broadcast. Good luck with that career decision.

GEEbz:

Note they are not striking because they have not been paid. They are striking because they want the exclusive right to fly the dreamliner over their now merged compatriots who continue to fly with delayed salaries.

I however agree with you they should have struck earlier when they were not paid for a couple of months.

The current reason is both unacceptable and further re enforces the traveling publics belief in how petty and narrow minded an India public service employee is. They are like crabs in a bucket not wanting to let anyone get ahead.

As a note Air India is about 50% over staffed per aircraft and the airline is unable to lay people off or even give a golden handshake.

The entire decline of this airline is based on human error. Error on the part of the management which is govt nominated and error in part of the employees who do not even blink once to abuse the system.

@<hidden> GEEbz,

You have posted in all the AI related threads asking people not to apply for these jobs.
Why am I getting a feeling that you are an angry 'ex' AI employee?

AI people deserve what has been dished out to them.
They are striking for all the wrong reasons. I can understand someone going to that length for not being paid for over 6 months. However, not for assured career progression. You have to earn that, cant demand for it.

Have you even read the demands by these guys? (I actually think you are one of those striking AI pilots who are about to lose it big time. If not, forgive me and let me try and put things into perspective for you)

Exclusive rights to the 787s- maintaining top dog status.
Assured command after 6 years- You surely have to understand the absurdity of this as an aviator.
Many more other useless, baseless things.

The government had just handed out a HUGE bailout package to these guys, people had shown a lot of faith in them. the 787s were supposed to turn this airline around. Things were supposed to be great at AI by now. - And then they ruined it.

Tips for career progression-
Work hard and try and make a winner out of your airline. Benefits will follow
Dont screw your airline into bankruptcy for your personal petty gains.

-Is that really that hard to understand?
FYI, all the non striking pilots have been paid by now.

AI express looking for expats

-By GEEbz
Any scab that crosses their picket line ought to be thrown out of aviation for good. I don't care how much they pay.

Grow a pair, people. Ignore A.I. and any other airline that drives it's employees into the dirt like that. Flying with Air India

The pilots at A.I. are on strike. Why would anyone in their right mind want to cross a picket line for a job and forever be labeled a scab?

WTF is wrong with you guys? AI to recruit 100 pilots, what kind?
So who are the scabs going to be that sign up to join this pathetic airline?

If they can't pay their own pilot's salaries for the past 6 months, what makes any of you think they will pay a contract pilot, who has no rights in country, and who's crew leasing agency has zero leverage with A.I.?


I hope someone is keeping track of the names who join up so we can add them to the global scab list.Why???

Anyone that accepts a job with A.I. while the pilots are on strike is a SCAB! You will be marked and you name will be broadcast. Good luck with that career decision.
dear Geebz, how exactly do you propose that will happen? also do you think an operator really cares so much about it?
:hmm:
in case, it were really possible to have the names out and broadcast-ed, we should have the P2F pilots meted down with some bricks and bats for degrading terms and conditions of pilots all over the world, don't you think?
:*

As a business owner if a person crosses the picket line and comes back to work after realizing the futility, I will look at them in a better light :ok:

I would actually agree with one of their key points - why train A320/A330 pilots on B787 when you have ready pilots from their B777 or perhaps B737s as well? AI is apparently neck deep in debt, and IMO they need to make some hard decisions on who actually should be trained and not who wants to be trained to save some money for the airline. But then again, have Indians ever made any sane choices with respect to their national carrier? My sympathy goes out to those unpaid folks, laying over on flights to Europe/USA without any money in their pockets. Such a disaster to be a pilot of an airline which cannot even provide basic sustanence. Shame!

Anyone that accepts a job with A.I. while the pilots are on strike is a SCAB! You will be marked and you name will be broadcast. Good luck with that career decision.

I remember in the day, when jumpseating on a Northwest Airlines flight, when was Northwest was still Northwest Airlines, which has since merged into Delta, out came the Jeppy binder with the official "Scab List". Yep... there are those who obsess over scabs.

My favorite is the staunch anti scab sentiment among the United Airlines pilots which has now merged into Continental. Quite a few UAL pilots of yesteryear were and are still venomous about their fellow co-workers who chose to cross their picket line in the mid 1980s. Continental Airlines also had an event too where some chose to cross the picket line too. The funny thing is that UAL pilots now flying in cockpits with Continental pilots who may have crossed their picket lines too. Oh well. such as life... or better yet get a life already.

At the end of the day, Geebz, I don't see expat crews who may fly for AI EX jumseating on Delta or United as they are no longer part of the PART 121 rat race. They left the US probably because they too got fed up with the crap they put up with when flying for US carriers.

Now... why didn't these Air India chappys call a sickout or go on strike for no pay??? Isn't pay a more important issue than who gets to play with the new toys? Myself, no pay no play. Or to quote a scene from the "Right Stuff"... "No bucks... no Buck Rogers". They could have had Air India by the balls. Oh well... such as life.

Now... as far as the excuse of "Career Progression"??? GMFB. Children can't play with the new toys first??? No wait... GMAFB! Now that was a battle far more important than pay:ugh::}:D These children need a time out. These brats are funnier than the Three Stooges.

Does this list even exists outside of the US?

Further, is it not illegal to maintain such a list? (I already know the answer to that question, certainly within the UK it would be illegal)

The list may be illegal (or not, I don't think any such rule exists to ban it), but it still exists here in the UK, perhaps even in India. I have come across quite a few pilots whose reputation have preceded them. Still, would you work for an organization who hasn't paid their workers? What guarantee would you have regarding your pay and adherence to your contract?

In the United Kingdom it would fall foul of the Data Protection Act to compile such a list. If it was ever used to discrimate against someone's employment they could also sue.

I just had a look over the US (someone was kind enough to PM it to me) the entries on that list date back to the 80's. With nothing recent being on there.

Unless things have changed, the contract pilots at AI will get paid as the agency request between 1-3 months payments upfront.

Misfits and Mercinaries. Thats how I heard one guy explain contract pilots.

Certainly the misfits on this board are salivating at the chance to cross a picket line and STEAL a job. And yes, many US scabs work out of India, so it will come as no surprise that these parasites have no problem crossing a strike like. That's the Indian pilot's fault for being so ignorant about the subject and allowing those guys to get into the aviation market there in the first place.

What I'm trying to do is educate the younger generation that you don't go out and get excited about an aviation job just because that carrier's pilots are on strike. Honestly, most Indian aviators are absolutely clueless in regards to this concept. I worked there for many years and was surprised how little they actually knew about unity.

Some guys don't seem to understand what scabs do to the aviation profession. They undermine the pay and lifestyle that generations of aviators before us worked and fought so hard to establish. If the company sees that it can hire scabs to work for less, they will exploit that. To the point where even the scabs get their jobs farmed out to the lowest bidder. It's called the race to the bottom.


There's nothing illegal about maintaining any list, btw. You can sue for anything but the burden of proof is always on the plaintiff. So good luck with that.

And remember, the pilots of Air India are indeed striking over pay. Why it took them so long is beyond me. When I was working in India I would rag them in the airport for accepting no pay for 2-3 months. It took 6 months of no pay for them to finally say enough is enough. They share blame for letting it get that far.

And yet some on here have the audacity to call them whiners and children. Wake the fk up. Nobody can work for free... that's called slavery.

Wannbe Flyer: "As a business owner if a person crosses the picket line and comes back to work after realizing the futility, I will look at them in a better light "

Are you kidding me? You know nothing about the labor side of owning a business. A successful business owner or exec sees his employees as assets of the organization and uses them as tools to thrive. Look at Southwest Airlines as an example. By contrast, mess with a pilot and their lack of morale will decimate the bottom line. Why, as business owner, would you piss off your most skilled labor?

Would you tell your Neurosurgeon what a useless fk-up he is and berate him just before goes in to do surgery on your brain? Would you treat your auto mechanic like crap and hope for a successful outcome of a major repair?

I've owned and ran 4 businesses throughout life. Each and every time I was all too aware that failing to manage my employees expectations could have dire consequences in terms of my success. Read the book: "Employees First, Customers Second." Ironically written by the chairman and CEO of one of India's largest companies.

You get what you pay for in life. You get the respect you give out. Air India mgmt created this situation by refusing the most basic human right in today's modern society, pay for services rendered. It should come as no surprise that the pilots have elected to shut down the airline. The only surprise is why it took so long for them to face reality, that management was never going to pay them.

Look, I'm no fan of Air India. I don't see why my hard-earned Indian tax dollars went to support an ailing government airline when I was there. Nor do I see it fair that my US taxes I pay now support A.I. by granting low-interest loans (US Taxpayer funded) on 777s and 787s. And I have equally come across many of the most arrogant Air India pilots in my travels there (to be fair, many many pleasant ones too). But my personal feelings don't bare any relevance to the situation at hand: a large corporate citizen withholding pay from it's employees. On that alone we should all be supporting the A.I. pilots in their strike.

GEEBZ. Congratulations on running 4 business. Unfortunately I cannot boast of that experience, I have only a single business with over 400 employees for 12 years and not had them go on strike ever or even think of forming a union. Would assume it is relatively successful as I do not have banks chasing me.

Back to AI

Can you please highlight where in any document even one AI staff member is saying they are on strike because of non payment of dues. I am unable to find that reference. The only reference I am finding is their gripe on the 787 and as of today a feeling the erstwhile Indian Airlines staff are having too much say in day to day matters.

Now as you have said when you were in India you used to pull their leg on delayed payments. A question I have. After 5 years of delayed payments why did they choose to go on strike 30 days after the Old minister got the sack and the new one took over. Too get a clarity on that would suggest you look up the "non aviation" leader of the IPG which is striking, his track record and more importantly who is his boss.......... Let me help you........the sacked minister :), but do some reading.

Now if the courts have declared the strike legal and the airline has started paying the salary post the much hyped equity infusion that came in this month and has asked them to collect their entire salary and come back to work does that not address their demand as per you? If yes then why are the still striking?

It is no secret AI is broke. It was not secret that the govt was working out a package to bail them out. It is open news that the first tranche has just come in, it is open news that all outstanding have been settled except for the 340 on strike and the 101 terminated ones have been asked to come in and settle their dues. Where is the beef now?

I fully agree with my Mr. Geebz here. Aviation industry is business too, and you have to run it like one. If you don't pay your employees, or favor one section over another, there is bound to be chaos. The management and the workers always have to be in harmony in any organisation, if they wish to survive. It is the bare essential of running a business.

I'm sorry Mr. Wannabe Flyer, I would disagree on your points. There is indeed a charter of demands for the striking pilots, and it does include payment of dues on a higher priority than of the much infamous claim on 787s. It may not be available to the general public, which is why perhaps you have not seen it. The clause for 787s is not what you think, however. It states that if the narrow body pilots were to be given equal opportunity on the 787s as the wide body pilots, the door should also be open for a wide body pilot to go over to narrow body aircrafts too. This has been rejected by the narrow body pilots, thus reducing the career progression (command conversion mostly) chances of the wide body pilots, while the narrow body folks are making merry on their luck. I hope now you understand on how it affects the poor wide body pilots more. Besides, when the company is almost broke, if I were the CMD, I would rather send a Boeing fellow for a 787 conversion rather than a gentleman from Airbus, as the training for the latter would be more expensive. Boeing to Boeing conversion sounds like a better business decision, as it would mean more relief for the taxpayers like you who fund the airline, thereby leaving more money for the airline to pay their wages.

Secondly, from what I've know, only February salary is paid to non-striking pilots and not to the striking folks. March, April, May and June dues still stand. So, I must say that you have been misinformed by your sources. Terminated pilots have been given close to $1800 severance pay only with no reference or offer to their previous outstanding dues whatsoever. I would have a problem with that, if I was in their shoes. And the equity infusion that came went for the above mentioned February salary, as I mentioned, besides fuel/airport charges. No other dues have been cleared or are planned to. Another point, their wages are being delayed for the past 1 year alone, not 5 years. Once again I would say that I doubt your sources. Also, why delay their February salary? The so called "agitation" only started in May, right? They can be paid till that month, at least. Just a thought.

It would be a different ball-game if Air India were to magically come up with funds to clear all past dues to all employees. But they cannot do that as of now. So let's not hypothesise on "what might happen if...". You are talking of parallel universes there mate. Having said that, I wonder why they didn't go on for their planned strike in April on the non-payment of their wages. I guess perhaps they were indeed thinking for the company, but who knows? Maybe this 787 business was their last straw, as they claim. I mean, no pay + no career progression + the horrible work atmosphere, I would be feeling pretty down about it if I was one of them. I think I can say for myself, I support these guys.

Read a few posts earlier regarding a scab list.
Well, in AI , u don't have to maintain a list, U automatically become well-known for crossing the picket line.

Someone was posting about info over who would jump in place of this strikers. Check this thread out.
http://www.pprune.org/terms-endearment/487890-information-about-latest-air-india-advertisement-737-777-a.html

As much as I know, pilots of AI itself have left and joined domestic airlines. About 15 to 20 of them have gone recently. So much so, even 2 executives have resigned from AI, even thou they were not part of the strikers. What say to that. I don't see anybody coming into this hell from domestic airlines.

The type-rated Ad is targeted specifically for the striking pilots to return on contract terms so they can't strike again and be placed at junior levels. Another arm twisting/ pressure tactic by the govt to break the union.

The expats vacancies are usually filled by agencies (someone has to get the kickbacks, rite). No expat in his right frame of mind would join AI.
AI had a lot of expats who have left now with no intentions to return.

Someone was talking about the strike being, for getting to play first on the 787. I think it was wannabe flyer and cactus225. Boys, with the decision of 1:1 pilots of AI:IC, the AI FOs will not see their command for 16-25 years. while the IC guys get their command in about 4 years. I would like to hear your version only if you were to sit on the RHS for the rest of your life. This is what they are fighting over, when they say career progression.

@<hidden> flyer
Unfortunately I cannot boast of that experience, I have only a single business with over 400 employees for 12 years and not had them go on strike ever or even think of forming a union
Don't pay your 400 employees for 6 months and U will be fortunate to boast of that experience. U could even begin with violating some T&Cs of their agreement. And my 2 bits of advice would be, why even think about being a pilot when your business is doing well, unless of course, you want to call yourself a workman.

edisontrent : I unfortunately have access to information on what is available on the public domain as well as interviews on TV with the heads of the Union and their comments. Rest of my experience is based on multiple travels on the carrier and the levels of staff commitment even when they were being paid and not merged.

Unfair: I agree, I pay my employees they perform I make money, I pay my employees they do not perform I loose money I fire/lay them off.

Unfortunately airlines in India especially AI do not have that option. 21 years and millions of miles later every experience from booking to flight on AI or IC has been forgettable purely due to staff apathy.

My business may be doing well it may also be linked to aviation, that does not stop one from being passionate about something outside their own profession and working towards developing that skill. Searched all my posts and my profile no where does it say I want to be a pilot. My handle says Wannabe Flyer but that could be just a pipe dream or a the wish to fly privately at my own cost. Las tI checked thousands of people do that and there is no restriction or hindrance to do so. Hence it is my prerogative to fly or not and would have to turn your 2 bits of advice down. :ugh:

Mr. Wannabe Flyer, I did not mean to offend you nor disregard your sources. It appears that you did try to gather whatever information you could, which was a good effort, given the fact that you do not currently fly but would like to keep up with the news. I do not blame you, a common man, for not knowing the inner details of what goes on with your national airline, nor do I expect you to. In the name of aviation security, all personnel are banned from talking to the media except selected folks in most parts of the world. Which is why those striking folks cannot answer each and every query raised by the public, or clear any misconceptions that have arisen due to the media's selective vision. In my opinion though, you are too hard on these guys. Why don't you try to ponder over those points on how lack of wages for such a long time, zero career progression, and a very high handed management can drive someone on the brink of mental chaos and choose to take such an extreme step? Ask your employees on how they would feel, also ask them to speak freely. Perhaps then you may appreciate the situation from their perspective. Just a suggestion. Also, have you ever met or talked to a pilot from AI? I really do not understand why you would question their commitment if you haven't even met them. On behalf of the pilot community, I would urge you to show some compassion to these guys, I think they deserve some now.

Edisontrent: Wow never realized that labor discussions could be considered a national security issue. Will continue researching it. yes I have spoken to some AI pilots and they have been very candid. A good % of them are being coaxed by their seniors and feel caught in a political game between the head of the union and the current stance taken by the new Minister. Unfortunately due to the scab list phenomenon that is alive and well in India their career progression will suffer more if they cross the picket line. Vindictiveness is embedded in the very soul of the Indian culture. A senior pilot will spend the rest of his waking moments ensuring the downfall of a scab or concentrating on how to pull down his right seat to ensure he does not get pulled down first.

Now to clarify on their wages from what I have been given to understand that unlike some of the private carriers who have given zilch money AI is holding off on Basic pay and is giving allowances for the past few months. The struggle for it to maintain cash flows is public knowledge. Hopefully with the bail out some funds will make their way to deserving crews. FYI across industry in this country currently payables have touched 90 days so not a new thing.

Now why i cannot show compassion so easily is that for 21 years I have on and off used AI and IC and every trip has been memorable for the wrong reason i.e. the crew. Even when they were the best paid I have seen them more interested in cutting deals, slipping thru customs and doing anything under the sky to supplement their incomes which have been higher than all airlines and the national average. Young impressionable kids who joined here got embedded into this culture of corruption and laziness and this is the root cause of problems in this air line and country. I am a strong believer that they have delivered to them a bankrupt airline where travelers deserted them in the best of time due to crappy service and absolute apathy of both the staff and the management not to discount the political class. The airline is bankrupt today cause no Indian wanted to fly them. I cannot comment for the behind the scenes crew but considering few planes of AI have fallen out of the sky over the past 30 years due to maintenance issues so I am assuming they are competent. Dwindling business, and routes means fewer options to grow. How many aircraft has AI indicted over the past 10 Years? They could have served notice and moved to the private carriers 5 years ago. Why didn't they?

Note: 3 family members are ex AI (not IC) covering the 70's 80's and upto recent. They were "pushed" out when they did not go with the masses. Forgive me if I am blunt and unsympathetic but you get what you deserve.

NOTE: No offense taken a healthy debate is always good, one learns something new everyday

Sorry mate, I guess once more someone hasn't been giving you the correct picture. This agitation has been called on mostly by the juniors, as they are the ones who stand to lose out the most. Anyone telling you that seniors are dragging the first officers along is a load of BS, and why would someone say this is a mystery to me. The heads of the unions are just going with what the majority of the union, the first officers, want. So I guess you cannot state that people are being coaxed here, no sir! If the majority would want it to end, it will. I do not think that vindictiveness is relevant here.

And no, the last was their basic February pay. No allowances since January, or December, I'm not sure. Besides, the airline has been doing good business recently, or so I gather anyway. All that money unfortunately went down for paying fuel charges and airport charges and all that. But a 90 days of backlog with respect to wages is not a good thing, in any industry or region. They would have been sued here had it happened in Europe. I guess Indians score high on tolerance and patience, but then I'll say someone had to stand up to it eventually if all that is to end. A line has to be drawn.

Ah, so you do have a personal connection to AI. I have heard of many such stories, yes. But personally never came across any, in any airline that I have worked for that matter. You might be surprised on how much some of the Indian Customs guys might be involved too, but again, those are also stories that I've heard. Perhaps things will gradually improve, let's be optimists for a change. Corruption exists everywhere in the world, some you see, some you don't. Back to the subject, Air India has inducted about 25 or something 777s, 20 odd 737s, and about 50 odd 320s, besides another 25 or so 787s on order in the past 10 years. Back then, with a decent career opportunity as this, who would not join or leave AI? You may know the state of other carriers in India today, why would anyone jump from one hellhole to another now? Besides, if things do not work, it is better to fix it, is it not?

And aviation security means you do not talk about anything, and I mean anything. Be it the name of that CMD's secretary, negotiations with unions, or how many wheels a plane has. It is something that is taught worldwide, especially after that 9/11 debacle. So the gag order stands, strike or no strike.

Been watching and reading about this with great interest.Normally,I lean towards labour as there is a history of exploitation of labour throughout history and in aviation.
There are always two sides to a story in a labour dispute.There is always rhetoric and whining on both sides and accusations and counter accusations are hurled.The truth and the solution is typically in the middle.
It is bad enough when private corporations or individuals (owners) get into a urinary olympiad with labour.Throw Government in the mix and voila, you have Air India.
It is time to get rid of government control of AI and start from scratch.That sentiment has been expressed here by different folks.But,given the long standing adulterous relationship between Govt and AI,it will never happen.So,right now both entities are in a death spiral clinging to each other and going down.
Farewell,Maharaja.It was nice knowing you.
Alt3

edisontrent: I whole heartedly agree with you that there is corruption everywhere. I know Indian customs are hand in glove. I have also seen some of the stricter policies jet has on Cc in regards to baggage etc.

Good to get clarifications on the pay. I will also re discuss your points on senior and junior and seek a clarification from the messenger.

In regards to the number of aircraft. in the last 10 years

1) 737 for AI express: were they 20? I thought the number was much smaller.
2) 320 for AI: I thought IC had not inducted any new 320 and was leasing a few while the aging ones were repaired
3) 25 777: No that does not seem correct. There were a few leased ones that were returned but purchased 25......?
4) 787 yet to come.

Therefore as per my last count in the last 10 years 777 and 737 (new aircraft put together maybe 20 of them have been inducted but also 747 and the 330 and 310 were pulled off so actual incremental count excluding AIE is actually not there in AI.

I guess i was trying to point out incremental climb in number of aircraft not replacement.

Looking at it from outside, as usual the labor unions running these sick outs have done a miserable job dealing with the media. This is why the general public is not on your side. The pilots should have sick outed much sooner and told the press they weren't being paid. End of story everybody understands no pay no work, but when the media is saying sick out because life's not fare, not much sympathy is coming from a guy living on 20000 rupees a month. This is the umpteenth sickout that has no direction or proper leadership to manage this to a respectable outcome. You can't start the sickout for one reason and then change the reason later when you realize things aren't going how you planned them. If you have a legit reason that the average guy understands your outcome will be much better. Otherwise keep it in house.

To management chappies who were part of the problem have decided to bail out. What a shock:eek:

Where were these gebronies when the work force were deprived of their justified dues?


Two Air India pilots resign, cite fatigue and stress; Ajit Singh to gauge tiredness level now - The Economic Times (http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/news-by-industry/transportation/airlines-/-aviation/two-air-india-pilots-resign-cite-fatigue-and-stress-ajit-singh-to-gauge-tiredness-level-now/articleshow/14309272.cms)

Most of the Exec Pilots have their offsprings in AI as pilots and these kids are among the striking pilots.

I would second everything that wannabeflyer says, being an ex- AI employee myself it is extremely disgusting to witness the calibre of some of the AI crew. Like wbflyer, i frequent AI for the nostalgia. I had joined AI not too long after the nationalisation. I got a glimpse of its old world charm and chutzpah. I still reminisense in the experience of the Mughal windows, the maharaja and the mughal paintings on the interior sidewalls and bulkheads. Not to mention the food.
I had sussed out alongwith nearly 100 of my collegues the tragic path this airline was heading into, literally a CFIT, we made our decision to call it a day and headed for the gulf in the 80s and early 90s. AI was being looted left, right and centre. You either joined the marauding lot or you suffered in isolation, we chose to jump ship.
This airline enabled me and i am gratefull to it for that and hence i fly it as a fare paying pax, now that i am living in UK and am not an airline employee anymore. Last summer i had to speak to a AME institute of over 100 students in India. Most of them were disheartened and dejected about their future in India due to the dismal state of the industry, many had invested their parents hard earned money into the course. Unfortunately in the hands of the GOI and manned by these unscrupulous characters AI/IA has turned into vicious parasite that is killing aviation in India.

The whole country is witnessing a sense of Schadenfreude, looking at these AI folks. Its sad but true.

Till date i sincerely hope this airline is revived under a Pvt ownership, preferably TATAs.

Sorry guys... Had to wipe the coffee off my screen and keyboard after reading this tidbit from the Times of India.

AI pilots to go on hunger strike::} The striking pilots of the erstwhile Air India are expected to go on a hunger strike, beginning on Sunday, in Delhi and Mumbai to put pressure on the government to meet their demands

Full story :}

Air India pilots go on hunger strike - The Times of India (http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/Air-India-pilots-go-on-hunger-strike/articleshow/14369491.cms)

Children... you gotta love them:*. The children of Air India are still pissed off because the Indian Airlines pilots are getting their shot at the 787 before them:{:{:{.

I wonder how many of the hunger strikers will lose enough weight to have the "MUST LOSE WEIGHT" stamp from the Indian medicals:)? But yet, I wonder how many will actually forego their daily repasts:yuk:?

I don't understand what these chaps are up to!
First, they go on a strike which is ILLEGAL as per the Indian court of law. :ugh:
Second, they try to scare off their replacements against joining NACIL, by threatening to label them as scabs. :=
And now, this clear-cut blackmail to the management by going on indefinite hunger strike, that too after around 48 days of striking work!!! :D
Shows how desperate they are now!!! :)

And seeing these events unfold reminds me of a quote of Capt. JRD Tata (I prefer calling him Captain :)), who was the pioneer of aviation in India as well as the father of Air India.
This quote mentions how grateful he was to his employees of the likes of V.G. Gadgil(VG), who was initially an apprentice but finally happened to be the Chief Engineer at AI.

"VG worked on all our aircraft - Puss Moth, Foxmoth, Miles Merlin, Q-6, Waco, Rapide, DH-86, Stinson Trimotor, Beechcraft, DC-2s, Dakotas, Vikings, Constellations and Boeings. All through these difficult years VG was always there and rose to be our Chief Engineer.
VG is a real old-timer and personified the early birds who had come in with us right from the start (of Air India). They lived and dreamed the same dreams that I dreamt, and build up this great airline with their sweat. Today when I see so many young men who have never done a day's real hard work in their lives, who think that the airline which they did nothing to build up, owes them a good living for a minimum of work and an occasional strike, who have no understanding of what this airline stands for and means to people like VG and myself, is it surprising that I should feel particularly grateful to men like him (VG)?"

I see some relevance here :)

These children need a good old fashioned swat across the head with a rolled up newspaper and sent to be without supper. Oh wait, I forgot these gabronies are going on a hunger strike for 48 hours. Oh wait... that's what they said. Bet their hunger strike lasts about ummmm 4 hours... from their last repast.

Fire the bloody lot, take their licenses away... and let real adults man the Air India equipment.

Well quoted Stick Rudder
But the way the Civil Aviation Minister has dealt with these guys is applauding :D
I presume if some more booting is given they will resume work. These guys hadn't seen it coming at all (sacking of 100+ pilots) :E

Good posts.
Guess Indian tax payers are finally fed up of supporting these thousands babus living at large, like true marajahs.
But I read somewhere that IFALPA is in support of them and would take action in case AI plans to hire replacements for them.

Thank you gentlemen, for demonstrating how inhumane and ignorant we humans are.

1) Anyone dying of hunger is certainly not a joke, for whatever reasons that might be.
2) It is not a 48 hour thing, some of the folks are at it for the past 5 days.
3) A few have been hospitalised, with more critical on their Ground Zero.
4) They are unpaid for since January.
5) With them being trained on 787s, it will save their national airline some taxpayer money as their training is cheaper than the gentlemen from their Airbus fleet.
6) Like I said, it will SAVE THE TAXPAYER money currently being pumped into the airline, perhaps which can be used to pay their salaries.
7) I would say that they work harder than their Airbus counterparts, apparently their union has a highly restrictive FDTL, which means these IPG pilots fly more, and thus do not deserve this heartless behaviour from those blokes at the Ministry.
8) Not everyone is a offspring of their Executive pilots. If they were, wont they be "unwell" to support their kids as well? They aren't, which speaks volumes on this point.
9) This strike is still technically not illegal, as the matter is sub-judice. It is an industrial matter, which means only the Labour Comissioner has the authority and jurisdiction to term it illegal or not. Which he hasn't, needless to say.
10) Once again for those folks who are talking about how these striking lot are whining about 787s, TRAINING BOEING PILOTS ON A BOEING PLANE SAVES MORE TAXPAYER MONEY THAN TRAINING AIRBUS PILOTS ON A BOEING PLANE.

Give them some respect for standing up for their beliefs, can't say most of us can do what they are doing. If you are thinking that I'm biased in favor of this lot, look at the points above once again. No information given here is wrong, none at all. All those folks who will raise questions on the above are either doing it because they will either be suffering from plain stupidity, or are deliberately spreading misinformation. Hope we get an IPG pilot here to speak up on their behalf, perhaps there are more points that I have left out. Credit to that lot.

Mean while... back at the ranch... two more buzzards failed their 787 initial rate ride.

So where's the savings for the tax payer's:}

I know! Those were the gentlemen from their Airbus fleet. Further justifing the striking pilots' demands! You do not mix Airbus and Boeing anywhere in the world. Gosh, will that dumb management ever understand that? :ugh:

EDIT: IFALPA has also come out in support of these guys too. This is getting worldwide attention, not the best way though.

Who are you? Never mix Airbus and boeing get over yourself child. Flown both back and forth a couple times.

PS; IFALPA support yes but never a hunger strike thats just stupid!

Edison,
You are a dumb only child aren't you. I honestly hope so anyways.
AI has lost over 600 crorers by way of those underachievers' 2 months of striking action. And you are talking of a few thousands extra per airbus pilot who would train on the 787. With a total of a dozen of them why don't you do the math.
Oh, I forget. You are an imbecile. Feel sorry for you and your likes.
The I, ME and MYSELF syndrome couldn't have been written for anyone other that the striking AI pilots. Absolutely apt and befitting.
For once, I tip my hat to the Civil Aviation Ministry. Although those morons aren't too far behind in the upper stores category.
So enjoy while the party lasts. And lose some weight in the bargain. A few less double black pegs can only help your sickened livers.
Heard one pilot gave up and ran home today. Nurse IV'd him some jonny walker black label swiped from the Newark-Delhi first class.
He has now made a full recovery(hic) and is back in the 'hunger strike'.....;)

I know! Those were the gentlemen from their Airbus fleet. Further justifing the striking pilots' demands! You do not mix Airbus and Boeing anywhere in the world. Gosh, will that dumb management ever understand that?

EDIT: IFALPA has also come out in support of these guys too. This is getting worldwide attention, not the best way though.

Soooooo your rational is, FATBUS, is that an airline with a current Airbus fleet has two choices about it's fleet.

1. If that airline decides to go all Boeing, get rid of all Airbus pilots because, according to you, an Airbus will never successfully complete the Boeing Type Rating Course; or

2. Stick with Airbus products as their current Airbus pilots will never be able to successfully complete a type rating course on any other aircraft be it a Boeing, Embrear, Bombardier... or what ever.

I guess American, Delta, Korean, Lufthansa, British, to name a few have it all wrong, and you have it all figured out correctly.

We are not talking about a flying club here or the good old boys network where pencil whipping an IR/LR may be the the norm. If a chap can't cut it, even after being recycled, than off the property they go. The instructors and check airmen in Singapore are legitimate and professional in their positions, and call it as they see it.

As long as IFALPA has the potential of increasing it's income base, they'll support wearing panties on the outside of uniforms too.

Ummmm...wasn't it a standard practice for donkeys years for AI to induct pilots on to the A-310's and then send them on the B-747's?
Jet Airways sends pilots from the B-737's or ATR to the A-330's.....does that make them an unsafe airline? :S

@<hidden>
Businesses do NOT see employees as assets.
Employees are liabilities - look on the balance sheet.
Equipment (planes, desks, etc.) are assets.
It's not right, but that's how it is.

Captjins, I think you mis interrupted what I wrote, I have and will change from AB to Boeing within the same company.

So I've been called:

1) A dumb and only child.
2) An imbecile.

Why don't you counter my points, instead of attacking me personally? Do you have a certain vendetta against me? Do you think that an attempt to deface my reputation or calling me names might render my pro-pilots viewpoint null and void?

Air India pilots have been called:

1) Underachievers.
2) Obsessed with themselves.
3) Morons.

I'm sure that those evacuations from Tripoli, Japan, Kuwait, etc would go a long way from removing any doubts about their achievements. Also, flying with so many of your national civil aviation authority's special flight duty dispensations would say that they are certainly no morons. Also, flying without pay for such a long time and also without leave for the better part of their career for thesake of passengers due to crew shortage would lay waste to claims that remark about them being obsessed with themselves.

Certain other points raised by you were:

1) Cost of training per Airbus pilot with respect to the Boeing lot.

Average cost of training a Boeing 737/777 pilot on a 787 is approximately $50,000, including your country-specific check rides. For an Airbus 320/330 rated pilot to convert on the 787s is approximately $200,000. Multiply that by 8 crew per aircraft for 27 planes and then you tell me how many would your airline save? I did the math, why don't you? It ain't a few thousands, my friend, it runs in a few millions. And then that's only dollars that you calculated. Now how many people could be paid their pending dues February onwards with that kinda money? How much will you get?

2) A certain pilot running off from his hunger strike for a drink fed to him by a company doctor supposedly pilfered from a flight to come back and continue on his hunger strike.

Well, I don't know what is going on back there now. So I can't really comment on anyone quitting on his manner of agitation. But you seem to be sure about him drinking, yes? Have you seen it? Are you sure it was pilfered? Did you accuse a company doctor of giving him alcohol? Not only you seem delusional, but having a severe lack of respect for medical ethics as well.

Even if he/she did quit, I'm sure that you can set a new world record on going hungry, yes? Since those striking pilots aren't able to stick it out for a few days without food, you can show them how it's done.

Even if one pilot did quit, how many are there still protesting, now for the 6th or the 7th day without food? Surely, one person ran off but close to 10-15 are still there sticking it out. Despite that, if your source of information says that he's joined back, after his little drink you say, I guess they all got some balls going against the tide, and they keep coming back for more.


My friend, except calling you delusional, you might notice I did not have to call you any names or disrespected you. I answered all your points with sufficient reason and justification behind it. You don't have to get rude to make yourself heard. This is a public forum, and I would appreciate if we all share some mutual respect here.

On another note, were you so anti-pilot during last year's strike as well?

What I meant was that Airbus to Boeing takes some time and money. It is possible, of course. Any average pilot wouldn't have a problem. But put that in context of an airline's financial crunch and cost savings, won't it make more sense to train a Boeing guy on Boeing and an Airbus guy on Airbus? We all have done ratings before. We know how much it costs.

Someone mentioned about AI's former conversions for pilots from A310s to B747/777 here. Further clarification: control column, control stick. That's what I was talking about, simply put. 310 has a column, similar to the Boeings in general. Thus it is "easier" for him to transit to a Boeing. B-B and an A-A conversions are thus easier, financially beneficial and thus, a wiser move. Although Jet Airways has a primary fleet of 737 and 330. I guess they won't have much of a choice, their 777s are mostly leased out I heard. No way it makes them unsafe, I haven't heard of any significant incidents in all my years.

Edison,
I admire your spirited defence of the AI pilots here.You are the lone voice in this wilderness of disdain.:D
However, the AI pilots on strike have lost the initiative. Trying to go on a hunger strike and grab the moral high ground will get no sympathy from anyone.If they had made this about not being paid or unions not being consulted on lost seniority when IA and AI were merged, there might have been a few sympathisers on this forum and in the public.They chose to make this about wanting first crack at the new toy because they are the "international" pilots.Sorry,my friend, despite your assertions , that smacks of looking out for themselves and self interest.:=
Besides, nobody has died yet of a hunger strike.You know why ? Because that is just a sham.If anyone had not ingested nourishment for as many days, they should have been in a coma by now.Obviously, they are being fed and watered from the back door.
And, with all due respect, if you want to be treated respectfully here,maybe ,just maybe ,you should put up an objective defence rather than an emotional one?
Alt3.

I'm here all in favour of what Edison mentioned. He has mentioned nothing other than the facts. I see a lot of others here trying to ridicule him or put him down. Everyone else is only assuming that the hunger strike is a sham, instead why not get in touch with one of those who are actually doing it and get the facts right or better still, try doing the hungry bit back in your kitchens, just to figure out how tough it is. I tried fasting for a while and what can I say, I only felt even more hungrier. I have been in touch with a few of those and I totally admire their spirit for the cause. Also, there are Dr's present there from reputed hospitals who are checking on them regularly apart from the company doctors. And those needing hospitalisation are being moved. No one is left to die. And why should they. These pilots are only bringing the matter to attention which is not being addressed. They have certain genuine concerns which are not discussed but brushed under the carpet as if these concerns don't exist at all.

Sorry... no sympathy for the brats who are not going to play with the new toys. As for the pay issue???? what schmuck in their right mind would show up for work knowing they won't get paid for an indefinite period of time, realizing there are opportunities abroad? Definitely not the sharpest knives in the draws... ya figure:}?

Well as a conciliation to the dieters, they can apply with QATAR. If they pass the assessment they may be assigned to the 787... The best part is that QATAR pays on time too:ok:. Oh QATAR doesn't hire adolescents... do they:=.

AI hriring scabs,,,

Seems like we need some neosporin to ensure that these posts don't turn septic.

But riddle me this? Why is it that the foreign community is more fired up about this sickout than the locals?

Any one notice any AI crewmwmbers walking information picket lines in VABB, VIDP, or VOMM? Surely they all can't be on 48 hour hunger strikes. Anyone notice information ads in legitimate newspapers ala The Herald Tribune, USA Today, the Wall Street Journal? citing their cause?

Let them throw their own dogs into their own fight,

Mumbai: While the debt ridden Air India is already struggling to stay afloat, its own employees seem to be dragging down the image of the beleaguered carrier further. The new problem for the airlines comes in the form of its senior-most pilots undergoing training to manoeuvre the Boeing 787 aircraft at Singapore last week. The pilots, worried that they might not be able to clear the programme, allegedly tried to hack into the training module prepared by the aircraft manufacturer.

Boeing later complained to the airline that its pilots were engaging in such illegal activities. "Some of the pilots were found guilty of hacking into the training module prepared by Boeing. After Boeing brought this matter to the notice of Air India, the airlines sent a GM rank official to iron out the issue with the aircraft manufacturer," said a top Air India source.

The pilots hacked into the programme after two pilots who were sent for it earlier reportedly failed. Boeing Alteon, the aircraft manufacturer's training division, had prepared two different training modules for Air India pilots - one for those who have experience with Boeing aircraft, and another for those who have experience with Airbus.


While Boeing pilots train for 15 days, Airbus pilots undergo training for 45 days. "The pilots who have failed have experience with Airbus aircraft," the source further added.

Air India CMD Rohit Nandan said, "I am not aware of any such thing, so I would not be able to comment." Despite repeated attempts, Boeing officials could not be reached for comment.

27
The number of Boeing 787 dreamliners that were ordered by Air India, one of which was recently inducted in the fleet

Bone of contention
Boeing 787 has been the source of great friction between two pilot groups in Air India. The Indian Pilots Guild (IPG) of erstwhile Air India operate Boeing aircraft, while Indian Commercial Pilots Association (ICPA) comprising erstwhile Indian Airlines pilots mostly operate Airbus fleet. These two groups have long been at loggerheads over training for 787. While IPG members want to be the sole groups of pilots with know-how on flying Boeing, ICPA members wanted an equal share in training. The Air India management later decided to send an equal number of pilots from both the groups for training on 787.


Air India pilots tried to cheat during Boeing 787 training: Report | NDTV.com (http://www.ndtv.com/article/cities/air-india-pilots-tried-to-cheat-during-boeing-787-training-report-238886)

:ugh::ugh::ugh::eek::eek::mad::mad:

What would you expect from little brats without manners:}??? ethical behavior?:ugh:

Wow, you girls sure showed them hey... Strike for months over who cracks the nod for the dreamliner, and then go back to work because "Management would be SYMPATHETIC to your grievances!" I have even less respect for you guys than I had when you started your illegal strike. Secretly I did hope that when you did rock up for work eventually , your national carrier that is BILLIONS in debt, would have closed doors...
Pilots of national carrier Air India are set to call off their strike after almost two months, the high court in the capital, Delhi, has been told.

The pilots told the court that they would return to work within 48 hours.

More than 400 pilots have been on strike in a dispute over training to fly the Boeing 787 Dreamliner plane.

Dozens of flights have been cancelled because of the strike, which has entered its 58th day. Reports say the strike has cost more than £100m.

The airline has already sacked 101 pilots and the High Court had earlier ruled the protest illegal.

Reports say the pilots decided to call off their strike after the Air India management told the court that it would consider the demands of the pilots "sympathetically".

"The Air India management shall sympathetically consider the grievances of the pilots including the aspect of reinstatement of those pilots who were terminated as a consequence to their strike," Justice Reva Khetrapal said

The pilots told Justice Khetrapal through their legal representative that they will return to duty in 48 hours, reports say.

The pilots have been protesting against a decision to train pilots from Indian Airlines, which merged with Air India in 2007, to fly the Dreamliners.

Air India pilots say that as the planes were ordered before the merger, they should be given priority for training.

The airline is severely in debt - earlier this year the government approved a debt-restructuring plan worth nearly $6bn (£3.8bn).