Key Points

  • Base Allotment:

    Airlines ask 2-3 preferences (metros like Mumbai first); assigned per operational needs—junior FOs relocate 6+ months to non-home bases to balance pilot distribution.​

  • Relocation Reality

    Mumbai/Delhi pilots sent elsewhere (e.g., Bangalore hub w/35 aircraft); COVID/Jet shutdown delayed returns—adapt, enjoy new cities/food/weather.

  • Leave Types

    Privilege Leave (planned vacations, 2-6mo advance), Casual Leave (24-48hr notice events), Sick Leave (illness, early notice), Special Leave (emergencies), Maternity (6mo paid).

  • Family/Vacation Balance

    Captains switch contracts (70-80hrs/mo + weekly off vs 90-100hrs); combine leaves for 15-day trips—plan 2-3mo ahead via roster bidding.

  • Training Phase

    Standby-heavy, no fixed roster—prioritize sim/supernumerary/SLF completion before settling new base; build pilot networks locally.

  • Fitness/Rest Tips

    F

Summary

Capt. Neha and WingedEngineer (Mumbai-based cadet) discuss airline life: base preferences (Mumbai/Delhi oversubscribed, Bangalore/Hyderabad alternatives), 6-year Bangalore stay due to hubs/requirements/COVID, junior FO relocations for balance, leave system (PL for vacations, CL/SL/special/maternity), contract switches for family time (70hr/mo + weekly offs), training challenges (standby, new base setup), pilot networks/friendships, fitness via sports/gym/blackout rest—embrace exposure, plan ahead.

Conclusion

Pilot lifestyle demands adaptability—relocations build independence, leaves enable family/vacations if planned ahead, training first then balance; new cities become home with friends/food/weather.

FAQ

  • How are airline bases assigned to new pilots?

    How are airline bases assigned to new pilots? Pilots submit 2-3 preferences (Mumbai/Delhi first); assigned per operational needs—home base pilots relocated 6+ months elsewhere to staff smaller bases.

  • Why do Mumbai/Delhi pilots get relocated?

    Excess Mumbai/Delhi pilots vs fewer from other cities; ensures coverage for non-metro bases (e.g., Bangalore 35-aircraft hub).

  • What types of leaves do airline pilots get?

    Privilege (planned vacations, advance bidding), Casual (24-48hr events), Sick (illness, early notice), Special (emergencies), Maternity (6mo paid + unpaid extension).

  • How do pilots balance family time with flying?

    Captains select contracts (70-80hrs/mo + weekly offs vs high-hour); combine PL blocks for 15-day vacations, planned 2-6mo ahead.

  • Capt. Neha's Bangalore experience?

    6 years (2015-2021) as JFO/SFO/Capt due to hub demand/COVID/Jet shutdown; enjoyed weather/food, returned Mumbai post-upgrade.

  • Fitness/rest tips for irregular pilot schedules?