Qantas asks executives to become baggage handlers

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A senior Qantas executive could serve as a ground handler in exchange for a high-profile position as part of a plan to address the staffing shortage.

Colin Hughes, chief operating officer of the troubled airline, told staff in an internal memo asking for an expression of interest in the emergency response program, which is expected to last three months. rice field.

“EOI responders will be trained and placed in ramp environments at Sydney and Melbourne airports,” Hughes wrote.

“These people will support the ground handling partners managing Qantas operations for three months starting in mid-August.”

At least 100 managers will be employed to sort and scan bags and transport packages. Hughes added, “You can’t expect someone to choose this role in addition to a full-time position.”

At least 1,600 baggage handlers were laid off during the lockdown, with services outsourced to contractors. A federal court ruled the move was illegal, and Qantas has previously appealed. I swore that

The once-praised airline recently apologized after a flurry of complaints from frustrated passengers who have endured flight delays and cancellations, long queues at airports and lost luggage in recent months. .

The airline hopes to address the problem by reducing flights and hiring more staff next month.

Domestic and international chief executive Andrew David admitted that Qantas has been plagued with customer disappointment issues in recent months as it recovers from the COVID lockdown period.

A Qantas spokeswoman said the airline was working to improve its service.

“It is clear that our investment performance has not met the expectations of our clients and the standards we expect of ourselves, and we have taken all steps to improve our performance,” they said in a statement. increase.

“About 200 head office staff have assisted at the airport during peak travel times since Easter, as they have done in past busy seasons.

“While we manage the impact of a record flu season and ongoing COVID cases, coupled with the tightest labor market in decades, we will continue that contingency planning across airport operations over the next three months. I have.”

– AAP