Job cuts hard to avoid for SIA amid Covid-19 pandemic, say experts

Job cuts could be in the pipeline for Singapore Airlines, which is now overstaffed for current demand, experts said Monday. SIA could also try to cut costs in other areas, or possibly receive additional government support to tide it over the crisis, they added. The airline had last week announced a net loss of $1.12b in the quarter ending June 30 - its worst quarterly showing. It also said it is reviewing the shape and size of its network over the longer term, given the impact of Covid-19 on air travel. Nicholas Wyatt, head of research and analysis in travel and tourism at analytics firm GlobalData, said the recovery of international flights depends on how quickly the pandemic can be brought under control, but "there are few signs that this is happening". But if airlines cut jobs excessively, they will be shorthanded should the market rebound quicker than expected, he added. Other options to manage costs could include renegotiating deals with suppliers or cutting in-flight amenities, said Mr Wyatt.<br/>