Air India to follow Kingfisher's footstep? Pilots in trouble

New Delhi, May 9: If the same situation continues then

soon may follow the footsteps of

. Citing the current crisis between the striking pilots and the management of Air India airlines, central government hinted at downsizing the airlines. [UPDATE:

]

Government's decision of downsizing may bring difficulties for the striking pilots of the airlines who are facing legal trouble as the airlines (Air India) management on Wednesday, May 9 moved the Delhi High Court against them (striking pilots).

If the pilots continue their agitation, then the central government would downsize the airline, said Civil Aviation Minister Ajit Singh.

The minister has been quoted as saying, "Government has given them 30,000 crore of public money but that is not without strings. They have to prove their worth. Let me point out the example of Kingfisher. They downsized and since then they are doing fine. Air India only has 17 per cent market share. The pilots must look at this also."

Earlier on Tuesday, the airlines management sacked 10 pilots who were protesting against them. The agitation has led to the cancellation of four international flights from Mumbai and Delhi.

"Four flights have been cancelled today, two each from Delhi and Mumbai," said Air India spokesperson.

Meanwhile, Air India passengers vented their anger at airline staff in Delhi alleging that they were not cooperating or providing any details to them regarding their flights or other alternate flight.

OneIndia News