Tata Group-owned Air India has dismissed more than 1,000 employees over the past three years as part of a major internal crackdown on misconduct and policy violations.
The action was confirmed by Air India CEO and Managing Director Campbell Wilson during a recent town hall meeting with employees, where he highlighted the company’s strict stance on ethical conduct and workplace discipline.
According to company officials, employees were terminated for multiple serious violations, including smuggling goods through aircraft operations, allowing passengers to carry excess baggage without charging the required fees, and misusing the airline’s Employee Leisure Travel (ELT) benefit system.
The airline has reportedly intensified internal monitoring and investigations as part of broader efforts to improve operational standards and reduce financial leakages.
The crackdown comes during a difficult financial period for Air India. The airline group is expected to report losses exceeding ₹22,000 crore in the 2026 financial year, adding significant pressure on the company’s ongoing transformation plans under Tata Group ownership.
Rising aviation turbine fuel (ATF) prices linked to geopolitical tensions in West Asia have further increased operational costs for airlines globally, including Air India.
To control expenses, the airline has reportedly paused annual salary increments and reduced several non-essential expenditures while continuing its restructuring efforts.
Air India currently employs nearly 24,000 staff members. Company officials revealed that more than 4,000 employees came under investigation for suspected misuse of the Employee Leisure Travel programme. While several employees were fined or warned, others faced termination after investigations confirmed policy breaches.
During the internal meeting, Campbell Wilson reportedly reminded employees that adherence to the Tata Code of Conduct was mandatory and emphasized the importance of maintaining integrity even when actions are not being monitored directly.
The airline has been undergoing a large-scale operational and cultural overhaul since its acquisition by the Tata Group, as it works to modernize services, improve efficiency and rebuild its global reputation.
Originally published on 24×7-news.com.
