Vinay Dube, the CEO of the budget airline Akasa Air, has expressed his strong opposition to the concept of no-poaching agreements among airlines. This stance comes in the aftermath of a recent pilot crisis that the airline faced. He asserted his firm belief that such agreements would not be appropriate within the aviation industry.
During a conversation with the news agency PTI, Dube emphasized his resolute stance against the notion of airlines entering into no-poaching agreements. He argued that it would not be right for airlines to engage in such practices, as he believes that pilots, like any other employees, should have the freedom to choose where they wish to work.
Akasa Air had been grappling with a significant pilot shortage recently, with over 40 pilots resigning unexpectedly without serving their notice periods. Despite this challenge, Dube conveyed that the airline is gradually recovering from the turbulence it encountered earlier in the year.
He revealed that the airline has augmented its pilot roster from approximately 330 pilots in April to now boasting a workforce of over 450 pilots. Dube acknowledged that the abrupt departures of some pilots, who left without adhering to their notice periods, had been unprecedented and had resulted in flight cancellations, as well as a reduction in the airline's market share. Legal actions have been initiated against the pilots involved.
However, Dube firmly believes that there is no necessity for industry-wide measures to prevent similar incidents in the future. He explained that judicial clarity has been obtained regarding the matter, stating that pilots are obligated to respect their contractual notice periods.
Regarding the prospect of a no-poaching agreement among airlines, Dube strongly opposed the idea, emphasizing that he does not believe that airlines should collaborate on such matters. He maintained that it is essential to grant pilots the freedom to work with any airline of their choice, just like any other employees.
Akasa Air, which currently operates approximately 700 weekly flights, has ambitious expansion plans. Dube mentioned that the airline intends to enhance its network by 10% in December and a remarkable 33% by March. Their goal is to have a fleet of 25 planes by the end of the fiscal year.
Dube also commended the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) for its efficient support throughout the airline's journey, despite encountering some initial challenges. He noted that the airline received its Air Operator Certificate (AOC) and commenced operations in less than 24 months, highlighting the regulatory efficiency of DGCA. Although he acknowledged a lack of clarity in a judicial order, he emphasized that the DGCA had been incredibly helpful and efficient in their support.
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