The Smart Marty Sky Dispatch
Working hour flexibility for pilots proves a hit at Fly91 airline
New Delhi: A laudable policy by regional airline Fly91, which offers pilots enormous flexibility in deciding their working hours, is proving to be a hit in impr
Fly91, a regional airline headquartered in Goa, is drawing attention for its flexible working-hour policy for pilots, described by the company as aRetention Policy. The policy allows the airline’s 70 pilots to choose their preferred flying hours, accommodating night owls and early birds alike.
The program, started in July 2026 and reporting strong positive response, aims to keep pilots alert and in better health by aligning work with individual circadian preferences. Pilots may complete up to 70 flying hours per month and can decide whether to accumulate those hours over a month or finish them within a few weeks.
Fly91 has also instituted support for pilots’ families through a tie-up with BeFine Elderly Care, an eldercare health-tech start-up. This service involves regular contact with pilots’ elderly parents to monitor vital parameters and reduce stress for crews working away from home.
The airline, which began operations in India on March 18, 2024, operates six ATR 72-600 aircraft and serves 13 destinations, with plans for additional routes as deliveries continue. A recent order for 40 ATR 72-600s highlights its growth trajectory.
According to Captain Prateek Agarwal, Vice President of Operations, the flexible-work policy has helped reduce fatigue and improve well-being among crew, contributing to lower attrition in a sector known for staffing challenges. The initiative is described as a driver for talent retention, potentially attracting pilots from larger carriers.