Are Airline Pilots “Workmen” Under Labour Law Despite High Salaries?
The Delhi High Court has ruled that airline pilots can qualify as “workmen” under Section 2(s) of the Industrial Disputes Act, 1947, despite earning high salaries. The Court emphasised that the **nature of duties, rather than salary or designation, is the key factor** in determining workman status. The judgment clarifies the labour law rights of pilots performing skilled and technical functions and examines the distinction between operational command and managerial or supervisory authority.
August 24, 2026•4 min read
