Air India hires A320 pilots, intensifying IndiGo's FDTL crunch.

• Air India launched an immediate hiring drive for Airbus A320 pilots, intensifying competition for talent in India's aviation market.
• This move follows IndiGo receiving temporary relaxation from the government on Flight Duty Time Limitation (FDTL) norms.
• IndiGo needs to rapidly expand its pilot pool to meet new FDTL requirements and manage crew fatigue.
• Air India is seeking experienced A320 captains, prioritizing immediate joiners, amidst its own expansion under the Tata Group.
• IndiGo's temporary FDTL waiver, granted until February 2026 after significant flight cancellations, provides short-term relief but highlights long-term staffing challenges.

Why It Matters: Air India's pilot hiring intensifies competition, shaping India's aviation labor market.