AI Express operations normalised

Air India Express operations will be back to normal from Sunday after a temporary cut down of flights because the aviation regulator had not renewed the flying permits of 33 expat pilots working with the airline.

Air India Express operations will be back to normal from Sunday after a temporary cut down of flights because the aviation regulator had not renewed the flying permits of 33 expat pilots working with the airline.

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As a result the low-cost carrier that operates short haul international flights was forced to make a few ad-hoc flight cancellations since August 1, leaving passengers in a lurch.

On some occasion the airline borrowed the services of Indian, the company’s domestic carrier to bridge the temporary shortage of pilots.

The airline claims that despite approaching the Directorate General of Civil Aviation for license renewals in May, two months before they expire the process was delayed. “After getting the renewals, there are other administrative formalities such application for pilot’s visa and security clearance,” said an AI spokesperson.