Hong Kong Airlines delays pay as unrest 'severely' hits business

Hong Kong Airlines delayed salaries for much of its staff, saying business has been "severely affected" by social unrest in Hong Kong and sustained weak travel demand. Only cabin crew and overseas employees will receive their November wages on time, while all other Hong Kong-based workers will be paid on Dec 6, the airline said Friday. It said revenue dipped significantly in November - a low travel season - and impacted the monthly payroll. More than five months of anti-government protests in Hong Kong have weighed heavily on the aviation sector by deterring visitors, and pushing the local economy into recession. The unrest has disrupted transport networks and even temporarily paralysed the airport in August, prompting Hong Kong Airlines at the time to say it would adjust services. The city's third-biggest carrier isn't alone in feeling the heat from the protests, but it's the first airline to hold back salaries because of the revenue squeeze.<br/>