Air India raises retirement age for pilots and non-flying staff

The move was announced by Air India CEO and MD Campbell Wilson during a recent internal town hall, though an official circular from the airline is yet to be issued. The change brings the airline’s pilot retirement policy in line with the maximum age limit permitted by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) for commercial pilots. 

Air India currently employs around 24,000 people, including approximately 3,600 pilots and 9,500 cabin crew. The extension of the superannuation age for pilots adds seven more years to their service, while non-flying staff gain an additional two years. According to reports, the decision may be aimed at easing discontent among Air India’s pilot community, which had raised concerns over differing retirement rules compared to Vistara’s pilots. 

After Vistara’s merger with Air India in November 2024, some pilots reportedly expressed dissatisfaction with the disparity in service tenure, as Vistara’s retirement norms allowed a longer flying career. The retirement age revision is expected to take effect once formal communication is shared with employees.