A STRUCTURAL EQUATION MODELING APPROACH TO JOB SATISFACTION AMONG EMPLOYEES IN THE INDIAN AVIATION INDUSTRY

Abstract

This study applies Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) to examine determinants of job satisfaction among employees in the Indian aviation industry, focusing on four job profiles: Air Traffic Controllers, Pilots, Cabin Crew, and Ground Crew. Drawing on Herzberg’s two-factor theory, the Job Characteristics Model, and Social Exchange Theory, the model tests how work environment, compensation & rewards, career advancement, work–life balance, emotional labor, and organizational commitment influence job satisfaction and retention intentions. Data were conceptualized for a stratified sample drawn from a population of approximately 65,000 aviation professionals in India. Analysis procedures include confirmatory factor analysis (CFA), reliability and validity assessment (Cronbach’s α, Composite Reliability, Average Variance Extracted), and SEM model testing using standard fit indices (CFI, TLI, RMSEA, SRMR). Findings are discussed in the context of policy implications for aviation human resource management and regulatory stakeholders. The paper includes managerial recommendations, limitations, and directions for future research. (Abstract: 164 words)