Published on Wednesday, May 20, 2020

More than 1,300 Air New Zealand cabin crew jobs to go

Over 1,300 Air New Zealand cabin crew members will lose their jobs as the Covid-19 crisis continues to cripple air travel

Most affected are long-haul and mid-haul staff with 950 jobs going, while a further 300 domestic crew will be laid off at Wellington, Christchurch and Auckland.

Nearly 100 jobs will also be cut at regional carriers Air Nelson and Mt Cook Airline.

Rachel Mackintosh, assistant national secretary of union E tu said many members are 'devastated.'

"It couldn't be much worse for some of Air New Zealand's loyal cabin crew," she said.

"Many are completely gutted - they have committed years to making Air New Zealand a world class airline, only to be out of work with huge uncertainties about ongoing careers in their industry."

The union criticised the 'rushed and heavy-handed' consultation process.

"Air New Zealand employees need the company to be much more transparent, accommodating, and compassionate if they are to build their way back."

"We are still working through the consultation process so I'm unable to provide any further detail at this stage," an Air NZ spokesperson said.

In March Air NZ secured a debt funding agreement for a commercial loan of up to $900 million.

The airline has just begun resuming more domestic flights as the country eases restrictions.