[India] SpiceJet pilots refusing to fly until salary arrears are cleared

In India, around 40 pilots of the budget airline SpiceJet's Q400 fleet are refusing to fly until the carrier has cleared their salary arrears, Telegraph India reports.

Sources say the move has the support of the pilots' union, the Airline Pilots' Association of India (ALPA India).

SpiceJet has reportedly faced financial and operational challenges for months, with aviation watchdog DGCA keeping tabs on the airline.

In an October 9 letter to all its members and the civil aviation fraternity, ALPA India stated that it stands firmly in solidarity with these pilots and assures them of its full moral support, together with all possible logistical, professional, and consultative assistance in pursuing a fair and constructive resolution.

ALPA India reportedly said it had been informed that a group of pilots operating SpiceJet's Q400 fleet has resolved to take a principled stand in defence of their legitimate rights, professional dignity, and, above all, the uncompromising standards of aviation safety.

"These pilots have reportedly been operating under considerable stress and uncertainty arising from persistent financial and operational challenges. Reports of unpaid vendors declining essential aircraft-related services, coupled with delayed salaries and outstanding employee benefits, have created an increasingly difficult working environment.”

SpiceJet has yet to comment on the flight refusal.

Source: Telegraph India

(Quote via original reporting)

In India, around 40 pilots of the budget airline SpiceJet's Q400 fleet are refusing to fly until the carrier has cleared their salary arrears, Telegraph India reports.

Sources say the move has the support of the pilots' union, the Airline Pilots' Association of India (ALPA India).

SpiceJet has reportedly faced financial and operational challenges for months, with aviation watchdog DGCA keeping tabs on the airline.

In an October 9 letter to all its members and the civil aviation fraternity, ALPA India stated that it stands firmly in solidarity with these pilots and assures them of its full moral support, together with all possible logistical, professional, and consultative assistance in pursuing a fair and constructive resolution.

ALPA India reportedly said it had been informed that a group of pilots operating SpiceJet's Q400 fleet has resolved to take a principled stand in defence of their legitimate rights, professional dignity, and, above all, the uncompromising standards of aviation safety.

"These pilots have reportedly been operating under considerable stress and uncertainty arising from persistent financial and operational challenges. Reports of unpaid vendors declining essential aircraft-related services, coupled with delayed salaries and outstanding employee benefits, have created an increasingly difficult working environment.”

SpiceJet has yet to comment on the flight refusal.

Source: Telegraph India

(Quote via original reporting)