Air India suspends ten cabin crew as room-sharing rule sparks row

Air India has suspended ten cabin crew members who “incited” to protest against a new rule that requires them to share hotel rooms during layovers.

Other domestic airlines such as IndiGo and Vistara have followed a similar policy, but its introduction at Air India from December 1 faced strong resistance from flight attendants.

The All India Cabin Crew Association has also written to airline CEO Campbell Wilson and chief labor commissioner opposing the new policy.

“The crew has been suspended pending an investigation. Disciplinary measures are taken in accordance with the law. There is no violation of DGAC standards,” said a source close to the matter.

The airline’s management earlier said the new policy harmonizes practices between Vistara and Air India. Crews flying ultra-long-haul flights to the United States will not have to share rooms. In addition, cabin attendants and managers will be entitled to a single room during stopovers.

But this failed to appease the staff. The union pointed out that the airline’s action amounts to a violation of the Industrial Disputes Act as it amounts to a change in the conditions of service. The union also protested that this rule was being introduced while the case is pending before an employment tribunal.

“We urge you not to violate the existing status quo,” the AICCA wrote in a letter to Wilson last Friday.

Air India did not respond to an email query on the matter.