AI crisis: PMO seeks early resolution

The Prime Minister Office on Tuesday took stock of the ongoing stalemate between Air India's executive pilots and the management.

The PMO directed the ministry of civil aviation and the Air India to find early resolution to stalemate. Besides, the PMO told the civil aviation ministry that a lockout is not an option to resolve the issue.

Civil aviation secretary M Nambiar briefed top PMO officials at a meeting, which was also attended by cabinet secretary K M Chandrashekhar.

"The Air India management has not taken any decision on the cut of Productivity-Linked Incentives or any allowance for the unionized section of employees. Decision regarding the executive employees will be taken only after the committee setup to look into this matter has examined all aspects in consultation with employees," Nambiar said in his statement.

"The disruption of the flights is causing immense problem to the traveling public and bringing disrepute to the airline. In these circumstances, the pilots and all employees must cooperate with the management for the turnaround of the airline," he added.

Nambiar further said that though the government support is coming, it must be linked to a problem turnaround plan including cost cutting and revenue enhancement.

"We will advise the management to enter into a comprehensive dialogue with all sections of employees. This strike must end immediately in the interest of the public and this will also stand the airline in good state for future Government support," he later added.

Meanwhile, Jet Airways pilots held a meeting with the striking Air India pilots in Mumbai. Jet Pilots Union has expressed solidarity with Air India pilots.

Jet Pilots Union President Girish Kaushik said that all the pilots should form a federation to protect their interests. All pilots across airlines need to come together and resolve the crisis together, Kaushik added.

Talks between the management and the striking pilots collapsed on Monday  after both sides refused to budge on their stated positions.

Striking pilots have refused to get back to work until the controversial pay-cut order is completely withdrawn.

The Air India management on Sunday also agreed to set up a committee to look into the PLI modalities.Striking pilots in Chennai and Kolkata have also approved the setting up of a committee set up by the management.