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Qantas' pilots union has told members a proposed pay deal covering Sydney-London flights is “unsatisfactory” but pilots should make their own call given an outsourcing threat and an uncertain economic climate, according to a memo. The airline said Tuesday it was looking to postpone plans to order up to 12 Airbus SE A350-1000 planes capable of the world’s longest-ever commercial flights as it grapples with a fall in demand from the coronavirus, but it was still looking to seal a deal with pilots. Memos last week from two union leaders advised pilots to reluctantly approve the company’s offer, but the pair do not represent the entire union panel. Qantas last month told pilots that if they did not vote in favour of a deal, they would face being replaced. A vote is expected to be completed by the end of this month.<br/>

American Airlines is suspending pilot hiring as the rapid spread of coronavirus hurts the travel industry, according to a note from the company, the latest measure by a major carrier to stem the pain from a sharp drop in travel demand. “As you are aware, COVID-19 has had a significant impact on our flight loads,” said a note to American’s pilots, which was viewed by CNBC. “The impact is substantial, and unfortunately, the decision has been made to temporarily suspend new hire pilot hiring beyond our March 17, 2020 class.” The airline isn’t the only carrier to push back hiring. United and JetBlue last week announced hiring freezes and offered employees unpaid, voluntary leave.<br/>