In preparation for its merger with Vistara, Air India has rolled out an updated policy for its cabin crew, aiming to boost allowances and adjust accommodations during layovers. Under the new guidelines, effective December 1, crew members will share rooms during layovers, except for cabin executives and those on ultra-long-haul flights, where single rooms will still be provided.

Previously, room-sharing was mandated for all flights, but feedback from cabin crew members prompted this revision. Now, ultra-long-haul crews, operating flights over 16 hours, mainly to North America, will retain individual rooms for both scheduled and unscheduled layovers. Likewise, cabin executives—crew members with around eight years of experience who are trained in security and emergency protocols—will also have separate rooms.

Allowances for international layovers are also seeing an increase, with per-night rates rising to USD 85-135, up from USD 75-100. For domestic layovers, a new support allowance of Rs 1,000 per night will be provided, along with an expanded meal option from one to three meals.

As Air India and Vistara align their policies, several other benefits are in the works, including enhanced medical insurance of Rs 7.5 lakh for all employees, regardless of rank. With the merger on the horizon, this revised policy seeks to streamline operations for the airline's combined workforce of around 25,000, including 12,000 cabin crew.