News

Cathay faces potential employee strike

11 Dec 2012

Cathay Pacific is facing potential strike action from its employees in Hong Kong that could cause disruption to its services. 

After a general meeting yesterday, the Cathay Pacific Airways Flight Attendants Union announced they would start a policy of work-to-rule – where employees do no more than the minimum required by the regulations of their contract. They warned they would proceed to a full strike if the airline did not resume negotiations with them regarding pay. 

In a statement issued yesterday, Cathay Pacific said that it will not negotiate with the union unless the threat of a strike is withdrawn. It expressed disappointment at the union's remarks and decision, saying its action would have a negative effect on the public.

The union has at present not given any specific details about when industrial action might be taken. Cathay said it has contingency plans in place to cope with pressure on its resources arising from different types of disruptions. 

The union, which represents more than 5,800 cabin crew, wants the airline to increase the two per cent pay rise it has offered employees and has also expressed concerned about a scheme Cathay has started to allow non-Hong Kong flight crew to switch flights. 

Cathay Pacific last saw an employee strike in 1993 that lasted 17 days. 

Nicholas Olczak

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