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Air India grounds crew over BMI: Flying fitness stricter
21 Mar
Summary
- Air India implements stricter BMI compliance policy for cabin crew.
- Non-compliant crew may face de-rostering, grounding, and loss of pay.
- Obese crew (BMI 30+) face immediate grounding and mandatory medical tests.
Effective May 1, Air India is enforcing a new "Cabin Crew Health and Fitness Compliance Policy" that significantly elevates health and fitness standards for its cabin crew. The policy centers on Body Mass Index (BMI) as a primary determinant of flying eligibility, with stricter regulations for personnel having a BMI of 30 or above.
Under the updated policy, crew members will undergo regular BMI assessments during training and safety procedures, as well as before and after flights. Those categorized as underweight or overweight will be subject to medical and functional assessments before returning to active duty. Obese crew members (BMI 30+) face immediate grounding and are required to undergo specific medical tests within seven days.
Non-compliance with the new standards can result in de-rostering and loss of pay. Affected personnel are given a 30-day period to achieve an acceptable BMI. Failure to meet these criteria within the stipulated timeframes will lead to formal warnings and potential disciplinary action, underscoring the airline's commitment to rigorous crew fitness.
