Air India’s recent introduction of a new fatigue reporting policy has ignited a complex debate about pilot well-being and operational integrity. Under this policy, fatigue calls made by pilots and cabin crew will be reviewed by a dedicated committee, a measure that some fear may deter honest self-reporting due to concerns about potential retribution.
A senior executive from the airline emphasised the necessity of this policy to curb misuse of the existing no-questions-asked fatigue reporting system. They argue that it is vital to distinguish between fatigue arising from operational pressures and that stemming from personal circumstances. However, this perspective raises concerns among pilots about whether genuine fatigue cases will be fairly evaluated or dismissed as personal issues. The new policy stipulates that all fatigue reports will initially be recorded as fatigue in the system but will undergo scrutiny by the flight operations and medical departments. Should a report be deemed unsubstantiated, it will be reclassified as sick leave. This approach mirrors that of market leader IndiGo, which has also adopted a similar protocol to manage fatigue reporting.
Recently, there has been a marked increase in fatigue reports at Air India, many of which have been attributed to personal issues rather than operational demands. This uptick raises critical questions about the working conditions faced by pilots. “The extended waiting periods at airports without proper rest facilities significantly contribute to fatigue,” voiced one Air India pilot, highlighting the challenges of inadequate accommodations. In an ideal scenario, transparency in the analysis of fatigue data could lead to the development of a comprehensive fatigue risk management policy. Such a policy would allow the airline to adjust flight patterns that may be causing excessive fatigue among crew members. For example, Air India Express has started providing overnight rest for pilots on late-night flights to the Gulf, a change welcomed by many in the industry.
The experts warn that the success of this policy hinges on the involvement of the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA). Without pilot representation in the substantiation process, there are fears that the committee’s evaluations may be biased. Amit Singh from the Safety Matters Foundation noted, “Without robust data on fatigue, the effectiveness of these measures remains questionable.” The DGCA has yet to finalise the implementation of new fatigue rules, which could potentially lead to significant operational disruptions. As Air India navigates the complexities of fatigue management, the balance between operational efficiency and pilot well-being remains a delicate tightrope. If handled correctly, this policy could pave the way for safer skies, ensuring that the health of pilots is not overshadowed by the demands of air travel.
