Vistara Sincerely Apologies To Flyers For Flight Cancellations
Vistara’s commitment to addressing the challenges on a war footing reflects its determination to overcome the operational hurdles and restore normalcy for its passengers.
New Delhi: Vistara issued a public apology for the recent wave of flight cancellations due to a surge in pilot sick leaves following the announcement of new salary rules, which coincided with the merger with Air India. The airline cited ‘various operational reasons’ and resource constraints for the disruptions. With limited contingency capacity, Vistara struggled to manage the situation, resulting in numerous flight cancellations and delays. The airline assured the public of its proactive approach to resolve the issue swiftly. Vistara’s commitment to addressing the challenges on a war footing reflects its determination to overcome the operational hurdles and restore normalcy for its passengers.
Tata Group’s Vistara Airlines cancelling over 100 flights this week, so far, has left many fliers disgruntled. They are either facing flight delays or cancellations. If the issue is not resolved soon, the cost of travelling by air will get dearer, said travel agents and platforms.
“Any curtailment of capacity is bound to impact fares, which are already high. If the issue is not resolved urgently, it does not bode well for the upcoming summer holidays,” said Ajay Prakash, Board Member, Federation of Associations in Indian Tourism & Hospitality (FAITH), the apex body of the tourism and hospitality industry.
Vistara, which usually operates over 300 flights daily in the summer schedule, has chosen to temporarily reduce its operations.
Air India’s two pilots unions, the India Commercial Pilot Association (ICPA) and the Indian Pilots’ Guild (IPG), joining the Vistara pilots’ protest against the new contract following its decision to merge with Air India, have told Tata Group Chairman N. Chandrasekaran that the issue “reflects broader challenges” before the group’s aviation businesses.
“The pilots of Vistara have been steadfast in their advocacy for fixed 70 hours compensation, improved working conditions, and stable roster. After thorough assessment and consultation, we firmly believe that their demands are not only reasonable but also reflective of broader challenges prevalent within Tata Group airlines,” the unions said in a letter to Chandrasekaran on Thursday.
The Tata Group operates four airline ventures: Air India Express, Air India, Vistara and AIX Connect (previously known as AirAsia India)