Air India flights from Mumbai Airport delayed by flash strike

Thousands of passengers were stranded at Mumbai Airport Thursday after more than 20 domestic and international flights were delayed by a flash strike called by Air India's ground staff. The staff, employed by Air India Transport Services Limited (AIATSL), were protesting non-payment of Diwali bonuses and demanding reinstatement of 4 sacked employees. AIATSL provides ground handling services to Air India across several airports in the country. Workers are also disgruntled that the pick up-and-drop services for female employees has been discontinued. "We are not going to end our strike unless and until the authorities assures us that they will consider our demands," A union official said. "If needed, we will take this strike nation-wide". There was an average delay of over 2 hours. <br/>