Qantas move could jeopardise safety record: Union
Qantas move could jeopardise safety record: Union
A decision by Qantas to send more maintenance jobs offshore was inevitable, the federal government has said.
Qantas is regarded as one of the world’s safest airlines and has also topped the list for the fifth year in a row when it comes to punctuality.
It ran on time almost 83 per cent of the time last financial year, followed by Virgin at 78 per cent, Tiger Airways at 76.3 per cent and Jetstar at 76 per cent.
According to aviation editor Geoffrey Thomas: “This incredible safety record and punctuality has become part of the DNA of Qantas”.
But the workers’ union questions whether the safety record could be in jeopardy with the airline planning to send some of its aircraft maintenance overseas.
Qantas this week confirmed work done at its Avalon maintenance base will go offshore.
"We've seen in Singapore wiring stapled together when it's been broken… so Qantas' safety will be diminished because of these changes,” Steve Purvinas from the Licenced Aircraft Engineers' Association warned.
The federal government said the move overseas was inevitable as the airline faced increasing competitive pressure.
“They're looking at ways they can restructure the airline and I'd encourage them to continue and to take those necessary steps,” acting Prime Minister Warren Truss said.
The company has also flagged changes to foreign ownership - but doesn't think it will get through the senate.
