The fierce competition in the Indian skies, as a record number of passengers choose air travel, is taking its toll on the bottom line, and one major carrier, Jet Airways, has decided to freeze annual salary hikes expected at the end of the April-March fiscal for at least a quarter. India has become the third-largest domestic aviation market in the world on the back of a record over 20% growth for over a year now. The growth, however, has primarily come on the back of lower fares due to fierce competition among airlines, including Jet Airways. “The reason being given for the salary increment freeze is stressed financial position of the airline,” an airline executive said. The freeze on hike has been opposed by pilots. Pilots have also decided to protest against the management decision by not flying on off days, among others. <br/>