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Lean cost models clash with operational resilience in India’s aviation sector.

Pilot Shortage Exposes Gaps in Airline Strategies as IndiGo, Akasa Take Different Paths.

India’s recent aviation disruptions have highlighted how airlines’ pilot hiring strategies can impact operational stability. In December, IndiGo faced massive flight cancellations, largely due to inadequate pilot availability while implementing new Flight Duty Time Limitation (FDTL) rules, which mandate more rest and limit night flying. With 5,085 pilots for 417 aircraft, IndiGo operates with about 12 pilots per aircraft, reflecting its long-standing lean, cost-optimised model. In contrast, Akasa Air, led by CEO Vinay Dube, maintains a higher buffer with around 15 pilots per aircraft—466 pilots for 31 planes—despite aircraft delivery delays and no quarterly profit so far. Dube defended the strategy, citing confidence in Boeing deliveries and commitment to early employees. After the crisis, IndiGo committed to hiring 900 additional pilots following government scrutiny. Industry experts note that pilot-to-aircraft ratios are dynamic and depend on fleet mix, international operations, and rostering efficiency. However, the episode suggests that extreme optimisation may risk service reliability, while higher staffing can provide resilience during regulatory or operational changes.