QantasLink has announced it will close its pilot and cabin crew base in Hobart, impacting about 40 employees.
Qantas says the decision follows an extensive review and consultation period, which found that consolidating crew from Hobart, Canberra and Mildura into major bases on the mainland would improve reliability for customers.
Pilots and cabin crews impacted will be offered a support package to enable them and their families to remain living in Hobart, while working out of a major base.
Support for confirmed flights, an allowance to assist with things like accommodation and potential rostering support for a minimum of two years after the base closes will also be offered.
Qantas says it remains committed to Tasmania and there will be no impact to flights to and from Hobart as a result of the decision.
Comments from QantasLink CEO Rachel Yangoyan:
“We have dozens of new aircraft joining the QantasLink fleet in the coming years and this decision will help us provide customers with opportunities to fly to more destinations and benefit from more frequencies across our regional network.
“Importantly, relocating these jobs to other bases will not impact any of our flying into Canberra, Hobart or Mildura.
“We know the decision will be disappointing to our pilots and cabin crew in these bases and we are putting in place a comprehensive package to support them continuing to maintain their family and life in their home city. This will include support for things like flights and accommodation so they can commute to work.”
Ongoing commitment to Tasmania:
The Qantas Group remains committed to Tasmania and is investing significantly in its operations in the state. Qantas and Jetstar currently operate around 285 flights per week to and from Tasmania and we are growing our network with the relaunch of QantasLink flights from Hobart to Perth. There will be no impact to flights to and from Hobart as a result of this decision.
QantasLink is also deploying the A220 on four routes to and from Hobart and Launceston and will be opening a new Qantas Lounge at Hobart Airport.
Additionally, Qantas continues to employ more than 120 people at its Hobart Contact Centre and will shortly recruit an additional 13 people.
