Air India Ends Free Laundry Service for International Crew Layovers
Air India will discontinue complimentary laundry services for pilots and cabin crew during international layovers from July, replacing them with in room ironing facilities as part of broader cost saving measures.
New Delhi: Air India has announced a significant change to its international crew benefits by discontinuing complimentary laundry services during overseas layovers. The new policy will take effect from July 1 as the airline continues its efforts to reduce operating costs following heavy financial losses in the previous financial year.
Instead of providing hotel laundry facilities, the airline will equip crew accommodation with ironing boards and irons, allowing pilots and cabin crew members to maintain their uniforms themselves during international trips. Employees requiring additional uniform sets have been asked to apply through the company’s internal portal and plan their travel requirements in advance.
The airline clarified that the change applies only to international layovers. Laundry services during domestic layovers will continue without any changes. Air India has also exempted certain situations, including flight diversions and crew members attending simulator sessions or classroom training at international stations.
According to the airline, the revised policy is in line with global industry practices. Officials said pilots and cabin crew are already provided with four sets of uniforms, which are considered sufficient for regular international duty rotations. Many international airlines expect crew members to manage routine uniform care during overseas assignments as part of their daily travel responsibilities.
While the airline has defended the decision as a practical cost management measure, the announcement has drawn criticism from some employees. Several crew members have reportedly expressed disappointment, arguing that removing a long standing benefit places an additional burden on staff during international operations.
The decision has also triggered reactions on social media, where some employees sarcastically remarked that they may now have to carry detergent, buckets and clotheslines along with their luggage for overseas trips. Critics believe such savings should not come at the expense of employee convenience, while the airline maintains that the revised policy reflects international standards and supports its ongoing financial restructuring efforts.
