Air India Express, which is a subsidiary of the Tata Group-owned carrier, has come across operational challenges stemming from issues with its new rostering system, which recently resulted in the cancellation of some flights. The airline, which generally operates daily approximately 380 flights, has transitioned to a revamped rostering system. However, sources indicate that the system’s functionality issues have disturbed the schedule for cabin crew and pilots. At Delhi airport, seven Air India Express flights which comprise four departures and three arrivals and were scheduled between 1:50 am and 8 pm were canceled recently. At other airports, similar flight cancellations were reported, though the exact amount remains undisclosed.
While Air India Express has not issued an official statement regarding these developments, this occurrence follows a recent disruption, which the airline faced when a certain amount of cabin crew members reported sick in protest against alleged mismanagement within the company. The strike, which commenced on the 9th of May, was terminated within a week, with the protesting crew members resuming duty by the 11th of May.
In response to investigations, an official said that the airline operated around 345 flights recently without any cancellations. A few days ago, the strike’s conclusion was facilitated by a conciliation meeting convened by the chief labor commissioner in Delhi, and it was attended by representatives from Air India Express and the Air India Express Employees Union (AIXEU).
Following the meeting, the airline rescinded termination letters issued to 25 cabin crew members, despite the union’s assertion that all previously sick-reported cabin crew had resumed duty a few days ago. The scheduling software’s glitch displays staff as absent due to illness.
As Air India Express struggles with these internal challenges, passengers may experience disruptions in flight schedules. Still, the airline’s efforts to resolve the operational issues and restore regular services remain ongoing.
