Qantas does a deal with the hosties…………..oops sorry flight attendants!

Qantas said today it had reached a landmark in-principle agreement for a new five-year EBA with the Flight Attendants Association of Australia (FAAA) International Division that would lead to the creation of more than 2,000 full-time cabin crew jobs in Australia.

Chief Executive Officer of Qantas, Mr Geoff Dixon, said the creation of 2,000 new full-time jobs over the next three years was a direct result of being able to negotiate internationally competitive terms and conditions.

“This is essential to Qantas’ continued growth, and builds on our track record of having created 5,000 new jobs since 2001,” Mr Dixon said.

“This agreement will help provide the level of competitiveness Qantas must have in the highly competitive international aviation industry.”

“This new EBA provides stability and certainty for Qantas and its Long Haul Cabin Crew for the next five years.”

Mr Dixon said Qantas had established a new subsidiary, Qantas Cabin Crew Australia Pty Ltd (QCCA), to be a party to the agreement, along with Qantas Airways.

“All new crew will be hired by QCCA, which will deliver future jobs growth as well as supporting dedicated crewing for our new A380 fleet.”

Mr Dixon said Qantas would maintain its current balance of offshore and onshore crew, with offshore crewing levels remaining at 25 per cent.

“The agreement is a positive outcome for all concerned.” “It opens up a range of options for current crew.” “There will be an immediate and significant increase in the number of promotions available, as well as ready access to part-time work for current crew who seek that option.”

Mr Dixon said the agreement provided for a three per cent per annum pay increase, a sign-on bonus and improved superannuation arrangements for international cabin crew.

QCCA will begin hiring full-time cabin crew in early 2008.

A Report by The Mole