Mumbai: Jet Airways (India) Ltd pilots, who had planned to protest from 1 March over salary dues, have called off their plan following the escalation of the ongoing Indo-Pak conflict on Wednesday. Earlier, Jet Airways' pilots union National Aviators Guild (NAG) had asked members to strictly adhere to the duty roster and not accept last-minute changes beginning 1 March. It had also asked the members to wear black bands in protest.
“Everything, however, needs to be done at the appropriate time. The country is in a state of high alert following the events across the border," said the National Aviators Guild, which has about 1,135 members.
“At a time like this, we need to stand united with the rest of the country. Right now, we all have to ask ourselves if it is indeed the right time to fight for our rights when everyone else is fighting for the country," it said.
Jet Airways’ pilots are yet to get a large chunk of their December salaries, as well as the whole of their January salaries, as the cash-strapped airline looks at various avenues to raise money.
The airline, which has defaulted on interest payment to banks, had a gross debt of ₹8,411 crore as of end-September, including aircraft debt of ₹1,851 crore.
“It’s a hard call, believe us when we say that, given the sentiments of the pilots at present. But it’s a call we’ve had to take and have taken," the National Aviators Guild said. “All are informed that the flight safety period and the black band protest has been called off till further notice. We trust all will understand the reasons behind taking this decision and stand united."
On Wednesday, Pakistan used its air force to target military installations in India in response to counter-terrorism operations led by the Indian Air Force a day ago. This has led to an escalation of the already volatile situation along the border with Pakistan.
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