Air India introduces stricter fitness rules for crew, flags pay cuts over weight gain

Air India will introduce stricter health and fitness norms for its cabin crew from May 1, linking flying eligibility and pay to Body Mass Index (BMI) and functional fitness.

Under the new policy, crew members who fall outside prescribed BMI limits may be removed from duty rosters and could face loss of pay until they meet the required standards.

Clear BMI thresholds

The airline has set BMI 18–24.9 as the preferred range.

Underweight (below 18): Allowed only after medical clearance and fitness tests
Overweight (25–29.9): Can continue if they pass functional assessments
Obese (30 and above): Not permitted to fly under any circumstances

Crew in the underweight and overweight categories will undergo fitness checks. Failure to qualify could lead to unpaid leave. Those classified as obese will be immediately grounded and placed on loss of pay until compliance.

Policy to cover all crew

The guidelines will apply to both existing staff and trainees. In an internal communication, the airline said the move is aimed at promoting healthier lifestyles and preparing employees for stricter fitness benchmarks going forward.

Part of ongoing overhaul

The development comes as Air India continues its transformation under the Tata Group, following its takeover in 2022, with a focus on operational standards and workforce restructuring. Officials said action will be taken against employees who fail to meet the norms, particularly those in the obese category.