Cathay Pacific Airways at present dismissed three flight attendants following allegations of discrimination in opposition to non-English audio system. The incident occurred on flight CX987 from Chengdu to Hong Kong and led to widespread concern, prompting the airline to problem a sincere apology.
Cathay Pacific CEO Ronald Lam announced the employees dismissals after an inside investigation and reiterated the company’s zero-tolerance method to serious violations of firm rules and ethics.
Lam additionally said that he would lead a cross-departmental working group to review service processes, staff coaching, and associated methods to be able to improve service quality. The main aim is to ensure that all Cathay Pacific staff respect passengers from totally different backgrounds and cultures and provide skilled and constant service across all areas served.
Simple started when a passenger on the flight from Chengdu shared an online publish claiming that flight attendants complained about passengers in English and Cantonese. They allegedly made fun of a passenger for asking for a carpet as an alternative of a blanket in English. A recording of the conversation was circulated widely on-line, however its authenticity couldn’t be verified by Reuters. This incident sparked criticism on social media.
Cathay Pacific has been working to rebuild its popularity as it recovers from the Covid-19 pandemic. The airline skilled significant setbacks as a end result of flight cancellations, border closures, and strict quarantine measures for the crew, leading to substantial staff reductions since 2020.
Hong Kong’s Chief Executive, John Lee, commented on the discrimination incident, stating that it was critical and must not be repeated. He emphasised that the actions of the flight attendants hurt the feelings of both Hong Kong and mainland compatriots, damaging Hong Kong’s conventional tradition and values of respect and courtesy..