Indian offers VRS, strives for younger cabin crew

New Delhi, May 10 (UNI) Government-owned Indian (Airlines) has decided to dole out a handsome package for flight attendants who opt for retirement or ground duties.

The move comes as the airline tries to trim staff before merging with Air India (AI). It is aimed at inducting younger people in tune with the new 43 aircraft.

Cabin crew members who are over the age of 41 years now have the option of leaving with a compensation package ranging from Rs 13 lakh to Rs 25 lakh (depending on age). This will be in addition to existing post-retirement benefits.

Those who are below the age of 50 years can opt for ground duties. Such cabin crew will receive the benefit of an additional monthly compensatory allowance ranging from Rs 15,000 to Rs 50,000 per month within specified limits.

The board of directors has approved of the scheme to permit not-so-young cabin crew to voluntarily opt for retirement or ground duties, said an Indian's spokesperson.

''The scheme titled voluntary rehabilitation / rejuvenation scheme will help the company improve passenger perception of the airline,'' he said. ''This is in keeping with demands of a competitive market and Indian's constant efforts to upgrade its product and service.'' More UNI