Finally much to the relief of passengers and its fleet members, the Qantas airline is set to re-start its domestic and international flight operation from Monday. Rated as one of the largest global airways, the airline has suspended its entire fleet since last Saturday. This has affected nearly 68000 passengers worldwide. In the latest development, the Qantas has been ordered by a government tribunal to put a stop to the 14-month long industrial dispute.
In recent months, the leading airline has been plagued by a number of labor disputes over pay inequalities, working conditions and outsourcing of jobs. In spite of an appeal made by Julia Gillard, the Australian Premier, the Australian airline went on to cancel its entire 447 flights on Saturday. It also threatened to lock out its entire fleet members – from pilots and engineers to baggage and catering crews.
Alan Joyce, the Qantas CEO, has come under severe criticism for gross mishandling of the situation – fleet canceling and failure to control tension with the unions. The latest decision granted by the Australian tribunal gives both the parties 21 days to reach an agreement, failing which they would face arbitration.
The 90-year-old Australian airways is about to re-start its flight at 3:30 PM Australian local time on Monday. Though, a full restoration of operation globally might take some more time as its 108 plus aircraft are parked around the globe. Unions representing air and ground staff of international and domestic sectors of Qantas have expressed their hope for a “positive outcome” of the negotiation, and so are we. We hope for better days.
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