Air India and Akasa Air CEOs clash over pilot poaching dispute

The CEOs of Air India and Akasa Air have engaged in a rare public spat over the poaching of pilots. According to a letter from Campbell Wilson, the CEO of Air India, to Vinay Dube, the CEO of Akasa Air, the two airline heads have exchanged verbal and written confrontations regarding the contentious issue.

Akasa Air accused Air India of violating government policies that mandate a notice period of six to 12 months for pilots, rules that are currently being challenged in court by Indian pilots' groups. Air India, in response, argued that collusion to restrict job switching could breach competition law.

This clash sheds light on the intense competition in India's aviation market, fueled by a robust rebound in air travel post-pandemic and a surge in orders for new aircraft, leading to a shortage of pilots.

War of Words

Wilson, the CEO of Air India, responded to Akasa's complaints about pilot poaching by pointing out that the practice was not against government rules. He also questioned Akasa's objections, citing instances where Akasa itself had engaged in similar activities, poaching crew members from other carriers.

Akasa Air, which started its operations in August 2022, has faced challenges, with nearly 10% of its 450-strong pilot team abruptly terminating their contracts and moving to other airlines, including Air India Express. This situation has led Akasa to initiate lawsuits against certain departing pilots and the aviation watchdog, alleging negligence.

The Federation of Indian Pilots (FIP) has characterized the mass resignations from Akasa Air as a clear indication of widespread employee dissatisfaction within the airline. The dispute between the CEOs highlights the complexities and challenges faced by airlines in the competitive Indian aviation sector, where attracting and retaining skilled pilots has become a critical issue for industry players.

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