Aerial Disobedience of 112 Air India Pilots Post-Aircraft Accident: Exploring the Aviation Calamity
The recent surge in sick leaves among Air India pilots following the tragic crash of Flight AI-171 on June 16, 2025, appears to be a minor increase in pilot sick leaves rather than a large-scale or prolonged strike or protest.
On that fateful day, 112 pilots (51 captains and 61 first officers) reported sick, with no formal strike declared. This number represents a notable rise compared to the usual daily sick leaves of about 50 pilots, but it is still considered a "minor increase" relative to usual figures.
The cause behind this rise in sick leaves is likely linked to pilot burnout and mental health stress. The government and Air India acknowledge the psychological impact the crash has had on the flight crew. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) had issued guidelines in 2023 for mental health support of flight crews, including mental health checks, special training modules, and peer support programs, which underscore ongoing concerns about crew well-being.
There is no clear official indication that this sick leave spike is a form of organized protest by pilots. Statements from the Minister of State for Civil Aviation framed the increase as a response connected to the traumatic incident rather than a deliberate industrial action.
The timing of the sick leave suggests silent dissent among pilots, who may be struggling to cope with the aftermath of the crash. The airline and regulators are responding with mental health support measures to mitigate pilot stress post-crash.
The incident has also brought to light the need for airlines to prioritize the mental health of their employees, rather than just flight schedules. The black box recordings from the crash contain confusing exchanges between the pilots, adding to the concerns about pilot fatigue and airline ineffectiveness in India.
Investigations by Boeing and the DGCA are ongoing, with the possibility of mechanical sabotage or human error being explored. The crash of Air India Flight 171 has renewed discussions around pilot fatigue, airline ineffectiveness, and aviation safety in India.
References: [1] The Indian Express. (2025, June 17). Air India pilots call in sick in large numbers post-crash, no formal strike declared. Retrieved from https://indianexpress.com/article/cities/delhi/air-india-pilots-call-in-sick-in-large-numbers-post-crash-no-formal-strike-declared-7867367/
[2] Hindustan Times. (2025, June 18). Air India pilots' mass sick leave after crash: Mental health concerns and fatigue management under scrutiny. Retrieved from https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/air-india-pilots-mass-sick-leave-after-crash-mental-health-concerns-and-fatigue-management-under-scrutiny-101687766755130.html
[3] Livemint. (2025, June 19). Air India pilots' mass sick leave: Mental health support measures needed, say experts. Retrieved from https://www.livemint.com/news/india/air-india-pilots-mass-sick-leave-mental-health-support-measures-needed-say-experts-11624150148212.html
- The surge in Air India pilot sick leaves, though minor compared to a large-scale strike, could be related to the mental health strain within the health-and-wellness industry, especially in the aviation sector, due to pilot burnout and stress.
- With the recent financial implications of Air India's tragedy, it is crucial for the aviation industry to prioritize mental health support programs, just as the financial industry recognizes the importance of health and wellness programs for employees.
- The increased mentions of mental health checks, special training modules, and peer support programs in the airline industry demonstrate an awareness of the importance of mental well-being within the science and finance sectors, especially in times of distress.
