A major pilots’ group, Airline Pilots’ Association of India (ALPA India), has alleged that India’s two leading airlines, Air India and IndiGo, have informally agreed not to hire each other’s pilots. This has raised concerns about employment fairness and the competition in the aviation sector. ALPA India has written to the Civil Aviation Ministry, urging authorities to investigate and ensure a fair hiring process.
The association claims that such an agreement would restrict pilots’ job opportunities and violate labor laws and competition regulations. India’s aviation market is growing rapidly, with over 1,800 aircraft on order, and the demand for qualified pilots is expected to increase significantly. ALPA India believes that a transparent and competitive job market is essential to maintain the industry’s growth.
The association has requested the Civil Aviation Ministry to take action to safeguard employment fairness in the sector. It emphasizes that any hiring policies adopted by airlines must align with constitutional and legal principles. The group believes that regulatory oversight is crucial to maintaining a fair and competitive labor market for pilots in India.
The allegations have been met with silence from Air India and IndiGo, with an IndiGo official denying the claims. The lack of a formal response has left room for speculation within the aviation sector. If proven, the alleged agreement could potentially lead to regulatory scrutiny and probes by competition authorities. The matter has sparked concerns about the impact on employment opportunities for pilots in the Indian aviation industry.