Cathay Pacific tells aircrew quarantine could start in two weeks

Airline industry chiefs have urged the Hong Kong government to rethink its plans to quarantine aircrew for 14 days, as Cathay Pacific told staff the rule could start after February 11. In a brief memo to employees on Wednesday night, Chris Kempis, the airline’s director of flight operations, said Cathay was waiting for confirmation on when the new measures would take effect. “Rest assured we will update you with the full details as soon as we are able to,” Kempis said. “This is also the reason why we have not been able to produce a roster beyond February 11.” While officials have yet to announce finalised plans, the IATA expressed grave concern over the damage the measure could inflict. The association called for the government to treat Hong Kong-based aircrew as essential workers and make them a “top priority” for Covid-19 vaccinations. “We are a bit worried about this potential new measure for the crew in Hong Kong and particularly because the Hong Kong aviation sector is already fragile,” said Alexandre de Juniac, the IATA’s CEO and director general.<br/>