Date:15/02/2006 URL: http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/2006/02/15/stories/2006021501030700.htm

Back IA inducting 260 pilots, but sets stiff exit norms

K. Giriprakash

The sources said that the airline has been a hunting ground for private carriers, which have been dipping into the pool of highly trained pilots.

Bangalore , Feb. 14

INDIAN Airlines has started rolling out its plans to induct 260 more trainee pilots but has set tough exit norms for those who want to switch over to other airlines.

According to sources in the airline, IA is all set to induct 260 more senior trainee pilots months before it starts receiving the first of its new Airbus fleet. But this time round, the airline has put tough norms in place to ensure that pilots, who want to shift to other airlines soon after undergoing training for a higher pay, face heavy monetary loss.

IA has placed orders for 43 new Airbus aircraft whose delivery will begin from October this year and will continue for another four years. Currently, Indian has 570 pilots on its rolls.

The sources told Business Line that those who are applying for the position of senior trainee pilots would have to furnish bonds to the airline for their training, which will cost each of them up to Rs 21 lakh. The amount will be recovered in 120 equal monthly instalments in case the candidate is selected to undergo training.

These candidates will also have to furnish a bank guarantee worth Rs 5 lakh. They will also have to execute a 10-year bond with the airline. The pilots will, however, receive a salary of Rs 25,000 during their training period. The airline is also recruiting aircraft technicians along with the trainee pilots.

The sources said that the airline has been a hunting ground for private carriers, which have been dipping into the pool of highly trained pilots. Hence, the airline had decided to put together stringent norms so that it will not be easier for other airlines to poach from IA.

IA is also planning to retire nearly 60 per cent of its existing fleet in phases. It currently has a fleet of 70 aircraft. These include 47 A320s, 11 Boeing 737s, three A300s, three A319s, four ATRs and two Dorniers. Of these, 17 A320s, three A319s and the ATRs are on lease. Those that will be phased out include 11 Boeings and three A300s. Some of the leased aircraft too will be returned. But some of the Boeing 737s will be converted into freighters. Among the 43 new aircraft that will join the fleet, 19 are A319s, four A320s and 20 A321s. The sources said that some of the aircraft in the existing fleet are over 20 years old. Maintaining them will cost the airline heavily and hence, they will be withdrawn from service over a period of time.