Flash strike by Sahara pilots

PASSENGERS ACROSS the country scheduled to fly Air Sahara were stranded on Sunday as pilots went on mass leave, opposing the merger between Sahara and Jet Airways.

In Delhi, about 12 Air Sahara flights were cancelled. Only some passengers received prior intimation of the cancellations. Those who had booked their tickets through travel agents were the worst-hit. Most passengers were endorsed to Jet or Kingfisher, subject to availability.

The situation was similar at other airports. In Mumbai, over 1,000 Air Sahara passengers were affected as at least 20 pilots of the airline took mass sick leave. At least four flights were cancelled.

Sahara pilots are opposing the deal as it threatens their seniority. They are asking for a new contract to be signed with Jet.