SIA Cuts Over 3,000 Flights & Stops Hiring, May Ask Staff To Take No-Pay Leave Due To Excess Manpower

SIA Staff May Have To Volunteer For No-Pay Leave After Feb-May Flight Cuts Leave Manpower Excess

As Covid-19 concerns continue to grip the world, Singapore Airlines (SIA), among many other aviation companies, has had to face various setbacks.

After rushing to cut multiple flights, SIA is now considering further measures on their end, like no-pay leave for employees.

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The Straits Times (ST) reported today (25 Feb) that SIA has already implemented a hiring freeze, while other measures are still on the cards.

SIA considering no-pay leave for staff after more flights are cut

According to ST, SIA is currently experiencing an excess manpower situation after cancelling over 3,000 flights between Feb to May.

As a result, more than 500 cabin crew members and 50 pilots are facing much shorter flight hours.

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With less work available for employees, SIA may request for some to take voluntary no-pay leave, though this measure is still pending discussion.

They have reportedly already stopped hiring for ground positions.

Taking precautionary measures to get through ordeal

Despite the poor demand for flights due to the Covid19 situation, SIA is positive that they will overcome this challenge, comparing it to SARS and 9/11.

SIA’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Mr Goh Choon Phoong told ST,

“Yes, there are strong headwinds. But the group has successfully navigated past challenges such as 9/11, Sars and the 2008 global financial crisis.”

Moreover, SIA is already taking precautionary measures for ongoing flights.

In a message to KrisFlyer members, the airline detailed the cleaning procedures and changes to include the following:

• Cleaning common surfaces like tray tables, handsets and in-flight entertainment screens with disinfectant wipes
• Removing headsets, headrest covers, pillow covers, bed sheets and blankets after every flight sector
• Replacing hot towels with pre-set wet towelettes
• Stopping after take-off drink service
• Removing reading material from seat back pockets
• Suspending in-flight sales

Image courtesy of an MS News reader

Temperature screening for all staff has been in place, with thermometers, hand sanitisers and personal protective equipment (PPE) on hand if need be.

SIA doing its best to manage the situation

Although the current situation is very unfavorable for SIA, the airline is doing its best to cushion the negative impacts of the Covid-19 outbreak on the company and employees.

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Let’s hope that the situation gets better ASAP so that our national carrier can fly in its full glory again.

Featured image adapted from The Points Guy.