'AI bribed pilot guild leadership'

Pilots allege it was impossible for management to win battle otherwise

There seems to be no love lost between Air India executive pilots and its guild, the Indian Commercial Pilots Association (ICPA).

After MiD DAY reported yesterday that a pilot alleged that the ICPA leadership was a management stooge, there were more accusations against the guild.

"The AI management has definitely bribed the top ICPA leadership. This was the only way they could have won the battle against the pilots," said an AI executive pilot.

He added, "We have been fighting for our dues for a long time. We decided to take on the management, but some people from the ICPA ditched us."

An AI spokesperson said, "We don't want to react to every doubt. As per our meeting, the pilots won't go on strike and we will take care of their demands."

The pilots had threatened to go on an indefinite strike if their demands were not met.

The Other Side

ICPA president Shailendra Singh said, "We have taken a decision for all pilots.

We cannot do anything if some individuals are unhappy about the deal. Our demands have been met and so, we don't feel the need to go on strike."

He added, "If someone alleges that we have been bribed by the management, they are welcome to make such statements. We know a majority of pilots are happy with the decision."