Federation of Indian pilots which is helping the government by providing essential services in the COVID-19 crisis in India has approached the Bombay High Court on June 7, seeking compensation for the families of pilots who have died because of COVID-19. They also seek priority in vaccination for those pilots who got infected with COVID-19 and their insurance coverage.
The petition, filed by the ”Federation of Indian Pilots” sought the compensation of Rs. 10 crores from the Union government for the families of pilots who had died due to COVID-19. As per the PIL, 13 pilots have succumbed to the virus since February 2021. It also said that all airlines and pilots are diligently working to operate the ”Vande Bharat” as well as the other flights for evacuating Indian citizens stranded in other countries. They are also helping in the air transportation of medical supplies in the ongoing crisis.
The PIL further stated that pilots have operated flights in the pandemic with substantial risk to their personal and family safety. Despite this, they have been subjected to massive pay cuts since the beginning of 2020.
Indian Pilots Guild and the petitioner had made a representation to the centre, seeking that they are to be declared as frontline workers and be given priority in vaccination drives. They have also asked for a comprehensive insurance policy from the centre.
However, to date, there is no scheme for adequate compensation for the families of pilots who have died due to COVID-19.
