Air India Express pilots have raised concerns over income predictability, leave benefits and the sharing of operational risks despite a revised compensation proposal offering higher earnings, according to industry sources. The airline’s new package includes changes to monthly earnings, allowances, productivity-linked pay and leave provisions. However, pilot representatives have questioned whether the revised structure provides sufficient income stability.

Under the proposal, pilots across ranks would receive higher monthly earnings, while Boeing 737 fleet allowances could reach Rs 21 lakh for Senior Commanders and Commanders and Rs 10 lakh for Senior First Officers. These amounts are proposed to be paid in three equal instalments over three years beginning October 2026. The package also includes revised productivity pay rates and narrow-body allowances of Rs 25,000 for P1 and Rs 10,000 for P2 categories as part of fixed pay.

The airline has also proposed changes to its base posting rules and a new leave framework from April 1, 2027. Under the proposed system, pilots would receive 24 Privilege Leave, 12 Sick Leave and six Casual Leave days. Pilot representatives, however, have flagged concerns over the reduction in Privilege Leave and the possible effect of leave on overall earnings.

Also Read: Varanasi Airport Staff Recalls Flier Saying Gun Was Not Loaded Before Discharge

A major concern among pilots is that the revised structure guarantees only 40 hours of block pay, while additional earnings would depend on monthly utilisation. Pilots have argued that rostering and fleet deployment are controlled by the airline and that linking a significant portion of income to flying hours effectively transfers operational risks to flight crew. They have also pointed to the pre-COVID arrangement, under which 70 hours of fixed pay provided greater income predictability, arguing that a temporary pandemic-era reduction should not become a permanent employment structure.

Pilots have further raised concerns that taking Privilege Leave could reduce variable pay because of fewer flying hours, potentially lowering the financial value of approved leave. They have also highlighted duties including positioning, waiting time, night and WOCL operations, lounge stays, critical airfield operations and tail swaps, which may involve significant operational responsibilities without corresponding payable flying hours.

Pilot representatives have sought clarification on night and WOCL duties, lounge stays, critical airfield operations, tail swaps, the treatment of Sick Leave and Privilege Leave, as well as taxation and repayment conditions linked to any retention bonus. Revised offer letters were scheduled to be issued by August 14, with pilots required to accept the proposed terms by August 28, according to industry sources. The pilots maintain that higher headline earnings alone do not resolve their concerns over income security, leave benefits and the broader employment structure.

Also Read: Varanasi Airport Gun Mishap Leaves Two Security Personnel Injured During Screening