Civil Aviation Minister Ajit Singh today said the strike by Air India pilots is illegal. Speaking to reporters in New Delhi, Mr Singh said the management of the national carrier would take appropriate action against those involved in the stir. He said the pilots went on sick leave amid talks with the management of Air India. He said that the strike has led to cancellation of flights.
Noting that Air India is currently undergoing a turbulent
period and crores of public money is being infused to run the carrier, Mr Singh said every section has grievances and that there are ways to find a solution. The Minister stressed that the pilots should come to the negotiating table and resolve their issues through dialogue but not launch any strike.Three Air India international flights from New Delhi and one international flight from Mumbai were cancelled on Monday night after about some pilots went on sick leave. Air India spokes person told AIR that the airline has already declared the strike illegal and de-recognised the Indian Commercial Pilot Association, ICPA. Air India has also decided to rope in 150 management pilots – executive pilots – to operate the flights. The spokesperson said that medical teams are being sent to the houses of Pilots who have sought sick leave. However, he did not confirm media reports of sacking of 6 pilots by management.