Cathay pilots union tells Hong Kong-based members not to sign new pay-slashing contracts

After seeking legal advice, Cathay’s pilots union has asked its 2,200 Hong Kong-based members not to sign salary-slashing new employment contracts handed out in the wake of massive job cuts, with the airline’s pilots based outside the city also facing an uncertain future. The Hong Kong Aircrew Officers Association (HKAOA) in a letter to members on Thursday night vowed to defend its pilots’ existing contracts, as the city’s flag carrier seeks to rein in what it sees as inflated pay and generous conditions as part of a dramatic cost-cutting effort aimed at weathering the coronavirus pandemic. “In terms of the broader legal strategy, our lawyers are considering any and all angles, including any injunctive relief for actions taken by the company. All options are on the table at this stage,” union chairman Tad Hazelton said in the message to members. On Wednesday, Cathay announced it would be getting rid of 8,500 positions, with 5,900 existing jobs cut – most of them in Hong Kong – and thousands of other unfilled roles eliminated. Cathay Pacific’s regional carrier, Cathay Dragon, was also shut down with immediate effect as the airline sought to move its remaining Hong Kong-based pilots and cabin crew onto cheaper contracts. “The HKAOA has obtained legal advice on your contractual rights and protections pursuant to your COS (Conditions of Service),” a previous memo to unionised pilots said.<br/>“We suggest you refrain from making a commitment” until more substantive legal guidance was received, it added.<br/>