Wage protest by AIASL workers disrupts Air India flights in Mumbai

Passengers wait at the baggage counter. Pic/Madhulika Ram Kavattur

Several Air India (AI) and Air Indian Express flights on Monday faced major delays at the Mumbai airport due to the strike carried out by staffers of Air India Airport Services Limited (AIASL), who demanded a hike in their wages.

AIASL provides ground handling services to Air India Group - Air India and Air India Express - as well as international airlines at the Mumbai International Airport, along with other airports in the country.

Sources at the airport told mid-day, "The strike is being held as the workers feel they are not getting paid enough for the amount of work they are doing."

Official Speak

An Air India spokesperson addressing the issue said, "Industrial action by employees of a third-party ground handling agency at Mumbai airport has impacted the operations of Air India Express and Air India."

"Our airport teams are working closely with all stakeholders to minimise inconvenience to guests and restore normal operations as soon as possible. We appreciate the understanding and patience of our guests during this time," an Air India spokesperson said.

Passenger Speak

A group of passengers travelling from Tamil Nadu to Mumbai via Air India said, "Our flight got delayed, and we had to wait for some time inside the aircraft.

"There was a further delay of about an hour when we went to the baggage belt. No one told us the reason for the delay; we just kept waiting."