Qantas staff unsure of future
Their boss might have announced record losses just hours earlier but Qantas staff whose jobs are among the 5000 at risk appeared to be in the dark about their future with the company.
As chief executive Alan Joyce announced the overhaul, it was business as usual for staff at the international terminal.
Staff had been told to remain tight-lipped, though some indicated they were yet to hear from superiors about how they would be affected by job cuts.
Many learnt of the latest announcements about jobs through media reports.
It is understood staff held a long meeting at Qantas' crew offices yesterday.
Some staff appeared downtrodden as they discussed their uncertain future.
Passengers who had flown Qantas for lounge and frequent flyer club benefits said they were saddened by the airline's cutbacks but would use other airlines for overseas trips.
Traveller and loyal Qantas customer Vin Childs said job cuts could be the "right thing" for the company.
"The business has to," he said.
"They're losing a lot of money.
"I don't think countries need to have a national carrier.
"It doesn't really matter so much as long as we've got flights that go in and out, but it's a shame for the company."
