Air India to Enforce BMI-Linked Fitness Policy for Cabin Crew from May 1

New Delhi: Air India is set to introduce a comprehensive health and fitness compliance policy for its cabin crew, linking eligibility for active duty to Body Mass Index (BMI) levels and functional fitness assessments. The new guidelines, scheduled to come into effect from May 1, could significantly influence flight rosters and employee compensation.

Under the policy, a BMI range of 18 to 24.9 will be regarded as the “normal” and preferred category. Crew members falling below a BMI of 18 will be classified as underweight and may be permitted to continue duties only if they successfully clear both a medical evaluation and a functional fitness assessment.

Those with a BMI between 25 and 29.9 will be categorised as overweight. While they may still be eligible for duty, continued service will depend on passing the prescribed functional fitness tests. However, crew members with a BMI of 30 or above will be classified as obese and deemed ineligible for active duty under the revised framework.

As per the policy, individuals identified as underweight or overweight may be temporarily removed from duty rosters and required to undergo fitness evaluations. Failure to meet the required standards could result in placement on leave without pay until compliance is achieved. For those in the obese category, the rules mandate immediate removal from rosters along with loss of pay, with a stipulated period provided to return to acceptable BMI levels.

In an official communication to staff, the airline stated that the initial rollout is intended to “promote awareness of maintaining a healthy lifestyle” and help crew members adapt to the process of sustaining appropriate fitness standards. The airline further described the current phase as a preparatory step ahead of implementing more stringent health and performance benchmarks.

The policy will apply to both existing cabin crew and trainees currently undergoing instruction. The move forms part of the airline’s broader restructuring efforts following its acquisition by the Tata Group in January 2022. In recent years, the carrier has undertaken significant organisational changes, including workforce rationalisation and operational modernisation.

Officials indicated that corrective measures will be enforced for employees who fail to comply with the new standards, particularly those falling within the obese category, underscoring the airline’s renewed emphasis on health, safety, and professional readiness.