Air India Express has witnessed a significant development as a faction of its cabin crew has opted to conclude their strike and resume duties following the airline's commitment to address their grievances.
In a conciliatory move, the airline has also decided to retract termination letters issued to 25 cabin crew members, promising a thorough review of each case in accordance with service regulations.
This decision comes amid a tumultuous period for the Tata Group-owned airline, which had to cancel over 170 flights since Tuesday night due to cabin crew members reporting sick in protest against alleged mismanagement.
The breakthrough was reached during a conciliation meeting convened at the Office of the Chief Labour Commissioner (Central) in New Delhi on Thursday.
This meeting served as a platform for representatives from both sides to negotiate terms and find common ground.
The termination of 25 cabin crew members had exacerbated tensions within the airline, especially following a mass absence of approximately 300 employees who reported sick and turned off their phones, resulting in widespread flight disruptions.
Central to the employees' grievances are concerns regarding new employment terms, alleged disparities in treatment among staff members, and adjustments to compensation packages.
The cabin crew members have raised objections to what they perceive as unequal opportunities for advancement and alterations to their remuneration arrangements.