Air India Warns Cabin Crew of Disciplinary Action for Misconduct Affecting Airline’s Reputation
Air India, a subsidiary of Tata Group, has issued a warning to its cabin crew asking them to adhere to ethical standards and informing them that disciplinary action will be taken in case their conduct directly affects the airline’s image. According to a source, the airline’s in-flight safety department sent a communication to its cabin crew members instructing them “not to indulge in any of the act which is against the TCOC (Tata Code of Conduct).” The communication follows a recent incident in which a wide-body aircraft pilot was allegedly caught with two iPhone14 at Delhi Airport and asked to pay Rs 2.5 lakh in customs duty.
The airline stated in the communication that it has received feedback that some cabin crew members are carrying items in commercial quantity on their return to India from foreign countries, which is against customs regulations. It reminded the crew members that they are ambassadors of the airline and must adhere to ethical standards and follow the TCOC since their conduct directly impacts the airline’s image. The airline also warned that removing items from aircraft or any other company’s premises without written permission is a “violation of TCOC.”
The communication further added that there are security checks that have been planned on arrivals across the network to prevent this “malpractice.” The airline instructed all crew members not to engage in any act that violates the TCOC and warned that any violation would result in strict disciplinary action.
The Tata Group’s TCOC is a comprehensive document that provides ethical guidelines for the group’s companies and employees. In May 2021, Air India announced the implementation of the TCOC for its employees.
Air India’s warning to its cabin crew members highlights the importance of adherence to ethical standards and the Tata Group’s commitment to upholding its code of conduct. The communication serves as a reminder to employees that their conduct, whether on or off duty, reflects the airline’s image and reputation.