Hong Kong Airlines goes to ‘critical survival mode’. And, they’re currently flying only eight jets.
The Pilots are offered only a month’s salary for 6 months’ leave. The cause behind the same is the crisis of Pandemic. Wherein, Hong Kong Airlines enters its ‘critical survival mode’.
Long-term leave agreement for the personnel
A paid long-term leave arrangement will be offered to staff. Hong Kong Airlines employees will move offices, as the company seeks to cut costs. All in an attempt to keep afloat during the COVID-19 pandemic.
An internal letter to employees, confirmed that- Airbus A320 pilots would receive one month of fixed salary for six months of leave. Whereas, two months of fixed salary for nine months of leave.
The airline’s chairman, Hou Wei informed.
The A320 fleet will be grounded for one year from July 2021, Hou further said.
The letter by the chairman
Hou said that “in view of the low travel demand in the foreseeable year,” the company has made a decision.
- And, it plans to keep its active fleet to around only eight Airbus A330 aircraft. This will support its belly cargo operation and limited passenger services.
An existing unpaid leave arrangements would continue until further notice. Also, all employees working at the airline’s head office in Tung Chung would move to the HKA Training Academy at Hong Kong International Airport.
Wong Yu-loy
Trade union representative Wong Yu-loy said believed that the retention of only eight aircraft was akin to over 1,000 employees disbursal.
He also added-
Hong Kong Airlines had suffered financial difficulties for along time. And, it had already been downsizing. But, with the added harsh effects of the pandemic and the lack of government intervention. Its current restructuring would leave employees suffering.
The un-ending suffereings and misery
The airline’s business has been drastically affected, severely attacked by social unrest followed by the pandemic. And Hong Kong Airlines was now led to a “critical survival mode.”
“I deeply regret for those who would be affected but have to stand firm on this decision in order to secure Hong Kong Airlines’ future.” Hou said. “The ongoing pandemic remains unpredictable but Hong Kong’s resilience in overcoming past crises is our reminder that a bright future prevails.”
The pandemic yet prevailing to rage. So, other airlines in Hong Kong, including Cathay Pacific and HK Express, have also introduced similar paid leave plans.
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