Earning More Than AirAsia CEO, Who Fired Me: Pilot-Turned-YouTuber Gaurav Taneja

Days after Tony Fernandes, the CEO of AirAsia, was criticised by netizens for sharing an inappropriate picture wherein he was seen having a massage during a meeting, its former employee and famous YouTuber Gaurav Taneja has claimed that he earns more than his former boss today.

During an interview with influencer Raj Shamanim Taneja was asked to reveal his earnings. Although he was hesitant, he said, "The company that fired me, AirAsia, I earn more than its CEO."

Taneja's transformation from a pilot to a well-known YouTuber began after he was fired from AirAsia India in June 2020. His departure was linked to his outspoken stance on safety violations within the budget airline, with a particular emphasis on the controversial practice of mandating that pilots perform 98 per cent of landings in 'Flap 3' mode for fuel-saving purposes, a measure that raised concerns about passenger safety.

"I was terminated from airasia for raising safety issues! Now, the same issues are raised by #DGCA to @AirAsiaIndian. Justice will prevail! #Sabkeliye," he had tweeted then.

Today, his 'Flying Beast' YouTube channel has over 86 lakh subscribers. Also, he has close to a lakh followers on X and 40 lakh followers on Instagram.

He had earlier revealed in an interview that his initial earning at his previous job was Rs 60,000.

A few days ago, a post shared by Tony Fernandes, the CEO of AirAsia, on social media has garnered a lot of attention with many criticising him for the inappropriate picture.

In his recent post, he expressed his gratitude for the company's flexible work culture on his LinkedIn page. He highlighted the ability to multitask, citing an instance where he received a massage while participating in a management meeting.

He also shared a picture of him shirtless in a conference room during the meeting. However, this post sparked controversy online, with many finding the image and situation inappropriate.

"Was a stressful week, and Veranita Yosephine suggested a massage. Got to love Indonesia and AirAsia culture that I can have a massage and do a management meeting. We are making big progress, and I have now finalized Capital A structure. Exciting days ahead. Proud of what we have built and never have lost sight of the finish," wrote Tony Fernandes on LinkedIn.

However, he deleted the post, later.