Air India flights will not to be delayed even if some passengers, including MPs and VIPs, arrive late according to the new guidelines issued on Thursday by the Ministry of Civil Aviation. The government has made it clear that “customer-friendly service with efficiency, enthusiasm and cheer” will be the airline’s new motto.
Strict action would be taken if flights are delayed due to pilots or cabin crew members reporting late. Air India from now on will be liable to give an explanation to the government every time a flight is delayed beyond 30 minutes.
The average age of the cabin crew on board will also be at par with the best competing airlines. The older crew members would be shifted from now on to ground duties. The government is also considering an age ceiling of 35 years for cabin crew members. However, a final decision on this is yet to be taken.
According to sources the government has identified about 7,500 excess staff on Air India’s rolls. They might not lose their jobs, but could be redeployed and retrained for employment in other government aviation organisations.
Guidelines are also in process for the removal of “boring and unimaginative” in-flight entertainment.
