British Airways pilots would be among the highest paid workers ever to strike if they go through with plans to stage a crippling walkout in the heart of the summer holidays, insisting that a GBP20,000 pay rise over 3 years is not enough. Proposed industrial action by pilots union Balpa could see more than 4,000 pilots strike at the heart of the summer holiday, paralysing the carrier and causing misery for tens of thousands of passengers a day. BA, whose captains earn an average of GBP167,000, has offered an above-inflation deal worth 11.5% over 3 years but pilots are demanding a bigger cut of the company’s profits. If agreement cannot be reached Friday, strikes could begin Aug 17, as the union is required to give two weeks’ notice of any action. <br/>
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For the first time since Cathay Pacific went into business 72 years ago, the airline will allow its female flight attendants to wear trousers. Flight attendants first requested a revamping of their workwear in 2014, citing that they were too revealing and may provoke sexual harassment. The change comes after considerable pressure from its female flight attendants and their unions. Pauline Mak, vice chair of the Hong Kong Dragon Airlines Flight Attendants Association, said that the uniform policy change "not only provides us one more option, but also provides us with protection.” The uniform change won’t come right away. The update will happen when Cathay Pacific refreshes staff uniforms which, according to unions, could take up to 3 years. <br/>
Japan Airlines reported its net profit fell by 32.1% to JPY11.9b (US$110m) for the 3 months ended June 30, JAL’s fiscal Q1. JAL said the results were affected by external factors such as trade disputes and fuel price volatility. The carrier cited “rising uncertainties” in the business environment, including “US-China trade frictions.” Oil prices were higher year-on-year, but started to drop in late May because of concerns about the global economy and international trade disputes. Fuel prices rose in the middle of June, which was partly because of US-Iran tension. Operating profit dropped by 15.6% to JPY21v during the quarter. Overall revenue rose 4% to JPY355.7b, but operating costs were up 5.5% to JPY334.6b. <br/>