Dubai-based world’s largest long-haul airline, Emirates recently announced that it has laid 180 trainee pilots due to the impact of coronavirus pandemic. The company also pointed out that there may be more layoffs if the situation continues to worsen.
We reviewed all possible scenarios in order to sustain our business operations, but have come to the conclusion that we unfortunately have to say goodbye to a few of the wonderful people that worked with us,” a spokeswoman said.
“The company is doing everything possible to protect the workforce wherever we can,” she added.
While the notice period for those on probation is seven days, the airline said that it is extending this to 14 days, as a ‘gesture of goodwill.’
In a letter to these employees, the airline said, “Your last day of service would, therefore, be June 15, and you will continue to receive your usual company medical benefits… should you be unable to repatriate due to travel restrictions, your visa will be extended being your last day of service.”
The state-owned airline, which has around 60,000 employees and is part of the Emirates Group. There have been various media reports in the past predicting that the carrier may reduce 30% of its workforce globally.
Emirates had earlier said that a Dubai government commitment to provide it with “equity injections” would allow it to preserve its skilled workforce.
Emirates Group’s airport services subsidiary dnata has also laid off some staff and placed thousands of others on unpaid leave.
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