Air India links cabin crew fitness to pay as strict BMI policy kicks in May 1

In a decisive push to tighten onboard standards, Air India has rolled out a stringent health and fitness compliance policy for its cabin crew, directly linking Body Mass Index (BMI) levels to work eligibility, rostering, and salaries from May 1.

The new framework marks a significant shift in workforce regulation, with the airline mandating that crew members adhere to prescribed BMI ranges and clear functional fitness assessments to remain on active duty.

Under the policy, a BMI between 18 and 24.9 has been defined as the “normal” and preferred range. A BMI below 18 will be classified as underweight—acceptable only if the individual passes a detailed medical and functional evaluation.

Crew members falling in the 25–29.9 BMI bracket will be categorised as overweight. While not immediately disqualifying, they must clear functional assessments to retain flying status.

However, the most stringent action applies to those with a BMI of 30 or above, classified as obese. Such crew members will face immediate derostering along with loss of pay and will be required to bring their BMI within acceptable limits within a stipulated timeframe.

The policy introduces a direct financial consequence for non-compliance. Underweight and overweight crew who fail fitness assessments will be taken off duty and placed on loss of pay until they meet the required standards.

In its internal communication, the airline framed the move as a health-focused initiative, stating that the rollout aims to “promote awareness of maintaining a healthy lifestyle” while familiarising staff with compliance procedures. It described the current phase as a preparatory step ahead of even stricter fitness benchmarks in the future.

The policy applies uniformly to active cabin crew as well as trainees, signaling a comprehensive overhaul of fitness norms across the workforce.

The development comes amid the airline’s broader restructuring following its acquisition by the Tata Group in January 2022. Over the past four years, Air India has undertaken significant workforce rationalization as part of its transformation strategy.

Officials indicated that corrective action will be strictly enforced, particularly for those in the obese category, underscoring the airline’s intent to align employee fitness with operational standards and brand positioning.