The National Union of Flight Attendants Malaysia (Nufam) has urged AirAsia not to lay off staff amid financial pressures faced by the low-cost carrier, largely attributed to soaring jet fuel prices resulting from the Iran war.
The union said cabin crew, pilots, engineers and ground staff are often among the first to face pay cuts or reduced job security during periods of financial difficulty and corporate restructuring.
Union urges AirAsia to protect jobs
Nufam noted that AirAsia has suspended several routes and reported significant quarterly losses, developments that could lead to a reduction in its workforce.
“While AirAsia is trying to navigate these challenging economic landscapes due to soaring jet fuel prices and the Middle East war, Nufam firmly asserts that the airline’s workforce must not bear the brunt of these fiscal strains.
“Instead of leaning on internal cost-cutting measures that threaten employee livelihoods, it is time AirAsia looked for better ways to manage this crisis, including more sustainable financial rescue and fundraising plans,” it said in a statement.
Nufam urged the airline to keep employees updated on its plans, saying workers wanted assurance that no layoffs would be carried out.
Nufam highlights AirAsia’s role
The union also urged the public to be fair and constructive in commenting on AirAsia’s struggles, noting that millions had benefited from the airline through cheaper airfares and greater connectivity.
“AirAsia remains a vital national asset and a cornerstone of Malaysia’s tourism and transport sectors,” it said.
Fernandes denies bailout plans
AirAsia Group Bhd co-founder Tony Fernandes denied yesterday that the airline was seeking a government bailout, saying its operations remained sustainable.
Fernandes also said AirAsia was not seeking US$3 billion in fresh capital. Instead, he said the airline was seeking US$1 billion to refinance existing loans and repay some creditors.
Bloomberg reported yesterday that the low-cost carrier had sold six newly delivered aircraft since the start of last year, including two in July, because of its financial situation.
It said it was unconventional for airlines to sell aircraft without ever putting them into service.
