Qantas Flights Facing Major Disruptions Due to Union Strikes Demanding Higher Pay
Qantas travellers are on alert for potential flight disruptions as the airline’s engineers have initiated a two-week industrial action in Melbourne.
The strike began in Melbourne on September 26 and is expected to cause delays nationwide in the coming days, as warned by the union.
The primary reason for the strike is a pay dispute, with unions seeking a delayed 15% pay rise and an additional 5% annually to compensate for wage freezes over the past 3.5 years.
Approximately 1,100 aircraft maintenance employees, representing 45% of Qantas’ engineering workforce, are part of the negotiation.
Australian Workers Union National Secretary Paul Farrow criticized the airline for refusing a fair deal, stating, “You can’t expect workers to accept lower wages while announcing massive profits and executive bonuses.”
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The Australian Manufacturing Workers Union National Secretary Steve Murphy expressed that workers feel unappreciated and undervalued by Qantas.
He added, “Our members deserve fair wages for the crucial work they do to ensure our safety in the air.”
However, Qantas CEO Vanessa Hudson defended the airlines’ choice to reduce margins on international flights to address various stakeholders’ needs.
Qantas reported a profit of $1.25 billion for 2023-24, reflecting a 28.3% decline from the previous year.
Despite the upcoming AFL and NRL Grand Finals in Melbourne and Sydney, respectively, unions plan further industrial action on September 30, October 2, and October 14. Qantas assures minimal impact on travelers due to contingency plans.
A spokesperson stated, “We have taken precautions to minimize disruptions, and we do not foresee significant implications for our customers.”
Qantas also mentioned progress in negotiations with the unions regarding pay raises and benefits, striving to reach an agreement that satisfies all parties.
