New Delhi - Indian domestic airlines Jet airways has terminated the contracts of at least 25 expatriate pilots, news reports said Saturday.

A major hike in aviation fuel earlier this year combined with the impact of high inflation has led to a downturn in India's aviation sector and the sackings are part of an effort to cut costs and streamline operations.

The foreigners among the staff who had been sacked included captains of Boeing 737 aircraft, a Jet Airways spokesperson was quoted as saying by PTI news agency. The airlines had earlier grounded five of these aircraft.

Salaries for expatriates are about 40 per cent higher than their Indian counterparts and for a pilot is in the range of 15,000 to 18,000 dollars per month.

Jet Airways had sacked around 400 support staff in October but later rolled back its decision after widespread protests. (dpa)