Air Mauritius: Tensions Surge Between Management & Cabin Crew Union

A dramatic rift has emerged between the management of Air Mauritius and the Air Mauritius Cabin Crew Association (AMCCA), following contentious remarks from Kishore Beegoo, the newly appointed president and executive member of the company’s management committee. This was his first press conference since taking on his role in January.

Beegoo’s comments addressed several critical issues, particularly the working conditions of the cabin crew.

Regarding the controversial dismissal of AMCCA president Yogita Babboo in 2023, he stated:

“If someone has been dismissed, there must be a reason. It could be for political reasons or for actions against the company. It’s our duty to determine the validity of these claims.”

He suggested that if the allegations against Babboo were substantiated, a return to her position would not be feasible, while promising a “thorough investigation.”

“We are in a challenging situation, losing money in various areas. We will revisit this matter in two months,” he added, reiterating his commitment to a meticulous review.

He also refuted claims that he had threatened to lay off 400 staff members, asserting, “I never said that.”

When discussing working conditions, Beegoo defended Air Mauritius’ remuneration policies, indicating that cabin crew receive a daily meal allowance of 6,300 rupees (around £125) when abroad.

He asserted, “The cabin crew is among the best compensated in the company,” and said that their pay aligns closely with that of Qatar Airways, Emirates, and Etihad.

He downplayed concerns about staff departures, remarking, “If the job were as difficult as some claim, many would have already left.”

AMCCA’s Strong Response: A Call for Accountability

The AMCCA swiftly responded to Beegoo’s statements.

In a pointed press release, Yogita Babboo denounced the “derogatory” language directed at the union and its members.

She also criticized Beegoo’s selective revelation of information regarding allowances, which she argued created a misleading narrative.

Babboo highlighted the significant disparity between Air Mauritius’ minimum base salary of 18,000 rupees and the compensation packages for cabin crew at Gulf airlines, which can reportedly reach up to 130,000 rupees a month, excluding allowances.

Babboo contested Beegoo’s claim about the stability of the workforce, pointing out that the hiring of 30 new members in January indicated a shortage of staff.

She also raised concerns about a “frozen” pension fund that has prevented some employees from retiring, lamenting the absence of viable career alternatives in Mauritius.

“There are no alternative career opportunities for our staff here,” she stated.

The AMCCA expressed its dismay at the personal accusations made during the press conference, branding them “damaging” to the union and its members.

They have requested the intervention of the Minister of Labour, Reza Uteem, to help in mediating the ongoing conflict.

A Call for Constructive Dialogue

In light of these escalating tensions, the AMCCA is advocating for “constructive dialogue” with Air Mauritius management and a renewed commitment to transparency.

“We urge the management of Air Mauritius to adopt ethical communication practices and to engage in respectful discussions with its staff,” Babboo said.

The union is also reserving the right to pursue legal options and plans to hold a press conference to further address the situation.

As the dispute unfolds, the attention now turns to Air Mauritius and the potential willingness of its management to foster a more cooperative working relationship with its cabin crew.

Source: Defi Media