Vistara implements leave without pay for 30% of staff; defers increments

MUMBAI: Premium carrier Vistara has announced a top down 1-3 day compulsory no pay leave (CNPL) for 30% of its 4,000 employees in a bid to cut costs as the airline, like its peers, is forced to suspend operations at least till mid-April.

In a letter to employees, CEO Leslie Thng said the move will be implemented for April 1 to April 14.

The CNPL stretches from the CEO all the way down to managers. The top down approach means that CXOs, senior vice presidents and vice presidents will take three day leaves, while the ones lower down take 1-2 days. Most of cabin crew, security and ground staff will be exempted.

“I am aware that the above measures have financial impact on you, but I urge you to understand the unprecedented situation that we are going through which are impacting our business and cash flow,” Thng said in his communication.

“Our main priority is to preserve job and maintain employment for everyone within the Vistara family,” he added.

Vistara’s parent Singapore Airlines has already implemented pay cuts. Its other main shareholder is diversified conglomerate Tata Sons.

In India, both IndiGo and GoAir have implemented salary cuts across staff. IndiGo’s CEO Rono Dutta has taken a 25% cut while GoAir’s Vinay Dube has foresaken half of his salary.