Cathay Pacific faces ‘unprecedented’ staffing shortages that will keep fares high -union

A Cathay Pacific aircraft takes off at the airport, during the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic in Hong Kong, China, March 31, 2022. REUTERS/Tyrone Siu/File photo

Cathay Pacific Airways Ltd is facing “unprecedented” staffing and training shortages that will keep airfares high and threaten Hong Kong’s restoration as a global aviation hub, the union representing its pilots said on Thursday.

“Cathay Pacific, which built its global recognition on the pillars of outstanding safety, quality and service, is currently

facing unprecedented staffing and training shortages,” the Hong Kong Aircrew Officers Association (HKAOA) said in a statement.

“With a record number of resignations from the company’s most experienced pilots, Cathay stands unprepared to fully resume its operations, failing to meet demand in a resurgent travel market,” it said.