Typically, ultra-long haul flights are those lasting 16 hours or more. Air India operates such flights to North America. Image for presentation. | Photo: The Hindu
Ahead of the Vistara merger, Air India finalized a revised policy for cabin crew members in which layover allowances have been increased and members will have to share rooms during layovers, except for cabin crew and those operating ultra-haul flights distances.
The revised policy has been prepared after taking into account the feedback of cabin crew members. Previously, the policy offered room sharing for cabin crew members whether the flight was normal, long-haul or ultra-long-haul.
The allowance for international layovers will be increased from $85-135 per night from $75-100, according to an internal airline announcement.
Under the new policy, cabin crew members will have to share rooms during layovers.
However, cabin crew members on ultra-long-haul flights will be given single rooms during layovers, as well as during unscheduled layovers in the event of a flight diversion, according to the internal communication.
Typically, ultra-long haul flights are those lasting 16 hours or more. Air India operates such flights to North America.
Cabin leaders who are senior members with around 8 years of flying experience will also be given single rooms during layovers.
These handlers are trained to handle security and emergency situations, including providing first aid to passengers. Traditionally, all Air India cabin crew members had separate rooms to stay in during layovers. Air India and Vistara together will have a staff of about 25,000. Of these, there will be around 12,000 cabin crew members.
The revised policy will be effective from December 1.
A new subsistence allowance of Rs 1,000 has been introduced for domestic stays. The meal option available to cabin crew in domestic sectors has been changed from just one meal to three meals, the internal announcement said.
As part of policy harmonization ahead of Vistara’s merger with Air India, sources familiar with the matter said policies relating to leave, layover meals and medical insurance are being upgraded.
Among other benefits, medical insurance for all Air India employees will be ₹7.5 lakh, irrespective of length of service.
Vistara will merge with Air India next month.
Published – October 26, 2024, 8:20 PM IST
