Breakthrough In Air India Express Row, Terminated Workers Being Reinstated

New Delhi: 

In a major breakthrough in the Air India Express crisis, which had led to the cancellation of over 170 flights since Wednesday, the airline’s management has sent letters reinstating all 25 crew members who had been sacked for taking part in the ‘mass leave’ protests. All 300 crew members who had reported sick are expected to return to duty immediately.

Conciliation proceedings were held at the Labour Commissioner’s office on Thursday and representatives of the airline’s management and the Air India Express Employees Union attended. A document was signed during the meeting, which has been accessed by NDTV. Bearing the masthead of the Chief Labour Commissioner (Central), it was signed by representatives of both the management and the union.

“It is reported by the media that the cabin crew of Air India Express Ltd. have reported sick-en-masse which disrupted flight operations widely… After detailed discussions deliberation, persuasion and on appeal of Conciliation Officer and Chief Labour Commissioner (Central) the representative of union (members of cabin crew) agreed that all the cabin crew members who have reported sick will report for duty with fitness certificate immediately,” the document said.