Welcome to IndiGo: Enhancing Inclusivity in Flight Booking
IndiGo, one of India’s leading airlines, is taking a bold step towards inclusivity by introducing the gender-neutral honorific option ‘Mx’ during the flight booking process. This initiative aims to provide a choice for individuals who do not identify as strictly male or female, particularly catering to the transgender community.
Sukhjit S Pasricha, IndiGo’s group chief human resources officer, shared that this new option aligns with the airline’s commitment to diversity and inclusivity. The inclusion of the ‘Mx’ honorific reflects IndiGo’s dedication to creating a more inclusive and welcoming environment for all passengers.
Furthermore, the airline is also focused on increasing the employment of individuals with disabilities. Pasricha emphasized the goal of doubling the number of employees with disabilities within the company, highlighting the importance of providing equal opportunities for all individuals.
It’s worth noting that other airlines like Air India Express and Vistara already offer the ‘Mx’ option for passengers during the ticket booking process, reinforcing the industry’s move towards greater inclusivity.
IndiGo’s commitment to supporting the LGBTQ+ community extends beyond the booking process. The airline has implemented various initiatives, such as employee referral programs aimed at hiring LGBTQ+ individuals. This approach has resulted in the steady induction of LGBTQ+ individuals across different functions, including flying roles.
With 36,860 permanent employees, including pilots and cabin crew, as of March 31, 2024, IndiGo is dedicated to creating a diverse and inclusive workforce. The airline also employs over 240 individuals with disabilities in customer-facing roles across more than 60 cities.
Pasricha emphasized that the placement of individuals with disabilities is based on factors like safety, accommodation requirements, and skill mapping. IndiGo prioritizes merit-based hiring and has successfully integrated individuals with disabilities into various roles, including customer service officers and cargo teams.
Overall, IndiGo’s initiatives reflect a strong commitment to diversity, inclusivity, and equal opportunities for all individuals. By introducing the ‘Mx’ honorific and increasing employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities, IndiGo is setting a positive example for the aviation industry and championing a more inclusive future for all.