In an attempt to restore normalcy, Air India today began international operations to the US and Europe as part of its contingency plan . A spokesman of the national carrier told AIR that the national carrier has curtailed and clubbed many of its flights to the United States of America and Europe as part of its contingency plan to stabilise its international operations. He said that contingency plan will be fully operational by 20th of this month.This he said is being implemented with the help of executive pilots.

The striking pilots have urged the government to initiate preliminary talks on their demands. On the other hand Directorate General of Civil Aviation has initiated action against Air India pilots who have falsely reported sick and not resumed work.It has issued show cause notices to erring pilots. The strike by the pilots has entered 9th day today.

Civil Aviation Minister Ajit Singh said has said that all efforts will be made to end the crisis in Air India. He sought cooperation of all employees including Pilots to resolve it. Replying a discussion in the Lok Sabha yesterday he said the Justice Dharmadhikari Committee report relating to the human resource policy for its employees will be implemented after taking all sections into confidence. The Minister said that the government is currently studying the implications of the report. Calling upon the pilots to end their strike in the interest of all stake holders including passengers, Mr Ajit Singh said that the government will not be vindictive to them.
AIR correspondent reports that the ongoing strike and subsequent flight cancellations by the airline have disrupted holiday and other travel plans of many people.