Air India is set to roll out a new health and fitness policy for its cabin crew from May 1, linking eligibility for duty and pay to Body Mass Index (BMI) and functional fitness levels.
Under the revised guidelines, crew members whose BMI falls outside prescribed limits could be removed from flying rosters and may face loss of pay.
BMI-linked eligibility
The airline has defined a BMI range of 18 to 24.9 as “normal” and preferred.
BMI below 18 (underweight): Allowed only after medical clearance and fitness assessment
BMI 25 to 29.9 (overweight): May continue flying if they pass functional fitness tests
BMI 30 and above (obese): Not acceptable under the new policy
Crew members in the underweight or overweight categories will be taken off rosters for assessment. Failure to clear the fitness test could lead to unpaid leave until standards are met.
Those classified as obese will face immediate removal from duty and loss of pay, and will be required to bring their BMI within the acceptable range within a specified timeframe.
Focus on fitness and compliance
In a communication to staff, the airline said the move is aimed at promoting awareness around maintaining a healthy lifestyle and preparing employees for stricter fitness standards in the future.
The policy will apply to both existing cabin crew and trainees.
Part of broader restructuring
The move comes amid Air India’s ongoing transformation following its acquisition by the Tata Group in 2022, which has included restructuring and workforce rationalisation.
Officials indicated that corrective action will be taken against those who fail to comply with the new norms, particularly in cases of obesity.
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