Air India's New Health and Fitness Compliance Policy

Overview

Air India is set to introduce a health and fitness compliance rule for its cabin crew, effective May 1, 2026. The policy aims to promote a healthy lifestyle among staff and maintain a healthy weight category. The compliance assessment will be based on the cabin crew members' Body Mass Index (BMI).

BMI Criteria

Read also: Correcting Credit Score Errors: A Guide to Ensuring Accurate CIBIL Reports and Optimal Loan Eligibility

The policy categorizes BMI readings as follows:

• 18-24.9: 'Normal' and considered the 'desired range'
• Less than 18: 'Underweight', though may be acceptable subject to clearing of medical evaluation and functional assessment
• 25-29.9: 'Overweight', considered acceptable if the cabin crew member passes the required functional assessment
• 30 or above: 'Obese' and not within the acceptable range

Consequences of Non-Compliance

Cabin crew members who fail to meet the BMI criteria will face consequences, including:

Read also: Missing a Single EMI Payment Can Adversely Impact Credit Profile

• De-rostering for those who are 'underweight' or 'overweight' and fail to clear the functional assessment
• Mandatory loss of pay until clearance is achieved for those who fail to pass the assessment
• Immediate de-rostering and loss of pay for 'obese' members, with a requirement to achieve the acceptable BMI within a certain number of days

Aim of the Initiative

The policy aims to promote awareness of maintaining a healthy lifestyle and familiarize cabin crew members with the process of maintaining an appropriate weight category. The policy will be applicable to both flying and training staff.