I read with interest the recent report on the large number of IndiGo flights cancelled after the new pilot duty rules came into force. While these rules have increased the need for pilots, the November cancellation figures show that IndiGo is struggling to meet this demand. It seems strange that a country with such a large population should face a shortage of pilots.
The main problem is not a lack of people, but the high cost of training. Getting a Commercial Pilot Licence in India costs around Rs 45“ Rs 60 lakh. This high fee keeps many young people away from the profession. As a result, many of those who do qualify prefer to work with foreign airlines that offer better pay and more reasonable work schedules. IndiGo’s own planning has also added to the problem.
Reports say the airline had put a freeze on hiring and did not recruit enough pilots before the November deadline. This reduced its usual 4% reserve of crew to zero. So, despite having many potential candidates in the country, high training costs, pilots moving abroad, and weak planning have combined to create this situation.
In short, India’s large population should be an advantage, but the aviation sector is being held back by high training costs and poor workforce planning. Unless training becomes more affordable and airlines improve their hiring plans, flight cancellations will continue to trouble passengers.
