AUF backs Qantas pilots’ action
The Australian Aviation Unions Federation (AUF), of which TWU is a
member, has supported the Australian and International Pilots
Association’s vote of no confidence in Jetstar CEO Bruce Buchanan as the
airline moves to bring in overseas pilots at cut-price wages.
The AUF represents 20,000 employees across the industry and
is made up of the Transport Worker’s Union (TWU), Flight Attendants
Association of Australia (Domestic & Regional Division) (FAAA) and
the Australian Licensed Aircraft Engineers (ALAEA).
TWU national airline official Scott Connolly said the airline was intent on cutting the wages and conditions of all employees in the aviation industry in an attempt to undermine community rates of pay.
“When you compare the profits the Qantas group of companies is making, this will save only pennies but goes against the very fabric of Australian society,” Mr Connolly said.
“The Qantas group of companies has a brand that is so powerful because it is uniquely Australian, and this sort of action will do nothing to improve that. The workforce has invested their time and commitment in making the flying kangaroo what it is today, and we must work to protect that brand.”
FAAA Domestic and Regional Secretary Jo Ann Davidson said the airlines were stepping onto a slippery slope that could have companies using countries with poor labour standards in order to save money.
“We do not want the airline industry going down a path like shipping companies did with their so-called ‘flags of convenience’,” Ms Davidson said.
“If Jetstar is allowed to bring in pilots for cheap, will they then ship in flight attendants, baggage handlers and check-in staff to save money? That can’t be allowed to happen.”
ALAEA Federal Secretary Steve Purvinas said his members had seen the product of work being done in overseas conditions that did not meet Australian standards.
“Our engineers have seen planes where bolts are falling off and sub-standard work is being performed,” Mr Purvinas said.
“Companies think they can move overseas and hide their shortcuts but our concern, especially in our industry, is that it is dangerous and putting lives at risk.”
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TWU national airline official Scott Connolly said the airline was intent on cutting the wages and conditions of all employees in the aviation industry in an attempt to undermine community rates of pay.
“When you compare the profits the Qantas group of companies is making, this will save only pennies but goes against the very fabric of Australian society,” Mr Connolly said.
“The Qantas group of companies has a brand that is so powerful because it is uniquely Australian, and this sort of action will do nothing to improve that. The workforce has invested their time and commitment in making the flying kangaroo what it is today, and we must work to protect that brand.”
FAAA Domestic and Regional Secretary Jo Ann Davidson said the airlines were stepping onto a slippery slope that could have companies using countries with poor labour standards in order to save money.
“We do not want the airline industry going down a path like shipping companies did with their so-called ‘flags of convenience’,” Ms Davidson said.
“If Jetstar is allowed to bring in pilots for cheap, will they then ship in flight attendants, baggage handlers and check-in staff to save money? That can’t be allowed to happen.”
ALAEA Federal Secretary Steve Purvinas said his members had seen the product of work being done in overseas conditions that did not meet Australian standards.
“Our engineers have seen planes where bolts are falling off and sub-standard work is being performed,” Mr Purvinas said.
“Companies think they can move overseas and hide their shortcuts but our concern, especially in our industry, is that it is dangerous and putting lives at risk.”