Qantas Employees Walk Out During CEO Vanessa Hudson’s Speech Over Salary Dispute

In a dramatic turn of events, Qantas technical maintenance employees staged a walkout during CEO Vanessa Hudson’s recent speech in the company's hangar. The workers, who have been pressing for improved salaries, left the meeting mid-speech, signaling their growing frustration with the airline. This protest comes amidst rising tensions between staff and management, as employees demand better pay and working conditions. Hudson’s address was meant to focus on company growth and future plans, but the walkout highlighted the unresolved issues within the workforce.

The protest adds to the challenges Qantas faces as it attempts to recover from the financial fallout of the pandemic, with employee dissatisfaction now front and center. Whether the company will address these concerns remains to be seen, but it’s clear that tensions are boiling over.

Qantas Rejects Calls to Sell Jetstar Amid Political Pressure

In response to mounting political pressure, Qantas has firmly rejected the calls from Nationals Senator Bridget McKenzie for the government to have the authority to force the airline to divest its low-cost carrier, Jetstar. Senator McKenzie argued that selling Jetstar would ensure greater competition in the Australian aviation market. However, Qantas remains steadfast in its commitment to retaining its budget airline subsidiary, citing the essential role Jetstar plays in offering affordable travel options for Australians.

Qantas CEO Alan Joyce defended the airline’s stance, emphasizing that Jetstar’s success is integral to the Qantas Group's broader business strategy. The airline insists that any forced divestment could harm competition and affect the availability of low-cost flights for consumers.

Rex Administrator Halts Sale of Four Active Aircraft

 In an unexpected turn of events, Rex’s administrator has cancelled plans to sell four active aircraft, shedding light on the airline's ongoing challenges. This exclusive report from Australian Aviation reveals details surrounding the attempted sale and the future of these crucial regional planes.

 Regional Express (Rex), one of Australia’s leading regional carriers, had listed four Saab 340B aircraft for sale. These planes, which regularly serviced key regional routes, remained operational despite Rex experiencing disruptions in services earlier this year due to shortages in parts and labour.

The four aircraft in question—registered as VH-RXE (pictured above), VH-ZLX, VH-ZJS, and VH-ZRH—were all advertised through global aviation firm C&L. However, after EY Australia took over as the airline’s administrator, the sales process was halted. All four aircraft have been flown multiple times in recent weeks, further emphasising their operational importance.

 While the aircraft are now off the market, Rex's future remains uncertain as the airline navigates its current financial difficulties. With essential aircraft like the Saab 340Bs playing a critical role in regional connectivity, the decision to cancel the sale raises questions about the company’s long-term strategy.

Rex’s decision to retain these active planes may offer a glimpse of hope for regional passengers who rely on the carrier’s services. However, the airline’s broader challenges persist as it works through its administration process.