Manisha Singhal, an aviation expert, recently took to social media to express her dismay over the conditions experienced by Air India's cabin crew during layovers. She highlighted instances where crew members were left hunting for suitable hotel rooms for hours after a flight, only to find accommodations that lacked basic amenities such as bedsheets and towels. Such conditions, she argued, do not befit a world-class airline striving to uphold standards of comfort and professionalism.
The Tweet Beyond the inconvenience of shabby accommodations, Singhal emphasized the impact on crew morale and passenger experience. A fatigued and shabbily treated cabin crew is more likely to carry a grudge that could manifest in subtle ways during flights. This, in turn, could affect the quality of service and the overall experience of passengers, who rely on the professionalism and attentiveness of the crew throughout their journey.
Again. Again. Yet Again!!! @airindia if you want to be a world class airline, you do not treat your fatigued crew , on a scheduled layover flight this way .
You simply DO NOT. Hunting / wrestling for hotel rooms for four hours after a flight- and this is what is ‘offered’! No..
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com/hu1NUsTfj3 A Crucial Rest Stop Layovers are scheduled breaks for flight crews, allowing them to recuperate before their next assignment. These breaks are essential not only for physical rest but also for mental rejuvenation, ensuring that crew members are alert and focused during flights. The choice of accommodation during these layovers, therefore, becomes paramount in maintaining crew well-being and, consequently, flight safety.
For airlines like Air India, which aim to position themselves as leaders in the industry, the issue goes beyond mere cost-cutting measures. Singhal pointedly stated that dignity cannot be compromised in the name of cost rationalization. Providing adequate, comfortable accommodations for crew members should be seen as an investment in maintaining high standards of service and ensuring passenger satisfaction.
Air India's Gone Golden Days Comparisons were drawn to the luxury days seen by Air India's cabin crew where they resided in hotel chains like Taj and Marriott, where service and comfort are synonymous with their brands. Singhal's reference to these establishments serves as a reminder that crew members, like any other professionals, deserve environments that promote rest and well-being. Airlines, she argues, must prioritize such considerations to uphold their reputation and attract and retain top talent in a competitive industry.
Cites Improvement The issue raised by Singhal underscores the need for Air India and other airlines to reassess their policies and practices regarding crew accommodations. This includes the selection of hotels and the standards set for amenities and overall comfort. Clear guidelines and rigorous monitoring can ensure that crew members are consistently provided with suitable accommodations that meet or exceed industry expectations.
While cost rationalization is a legitimate concern for any business, it should not come at the expense of dignity and comfort for airline crew members. Air India, along with other airlines, must recognize that the well-being of their crew directly impacts operational efficiency and passenger satisfaction..
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