Air NZ: More than 1300 staff to lose jobs, says union

More than 1300 cabin crew will lose their jobs at Air New Zealand in a move one worker has called "crushing". Out of 1600 long and mid-haul crew, 950 will lose their jobs. For domestic crew, 300 workers will be made redundant across Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch. Regional airlines are also affected, with a combined loss of 97 jobs between Air Nelson and Mt Cook Airline, says E tū, the union covering cabin crew. One cabin crew member says they are "absolutely devastated". "Having seen first-hand the work done by our union members, and still having this result, is crushing. Air New Zealand values its staff less than its profit and shareholders, which so sad to see unfold," the crew member said. Air New Zealand says the process has not been rushed and full consultation was held. Up to 3500 jobs among 12,500 could be lost as Covid-19 grounds planes and has forced the airline to cut its international schedule by 95%. "We starting talking to staff and unions about these issues nine weeks ago and have done everything possible since then to collaborate and reduce the number of compulsory redundancies, including calling for voluntary exits, leave without pay, applying for the Government wage subsidy, and exploring redeployment and part-time options." A spokesman said the airline had worked with staff to establish a furlough scheme; however this was not supported by E tū.<br/>