Singapore Airlines Group sheds 4,300 jobs

Singapore Airlines Group announced today that it will cut around 4,300 positions across its three airlines as the aviation industry continues to be hit by the impact of the coronavirus.

However, the number of employees affected may be reduced to about 2,400 – "mitigated" by measures like the recruitment freeze implemented in March, the early retirement scheme for ground staff and pilots, as well as a voluntary release scheme for cabin crew, it said, Channel News Asia reports.

"Collectively, these measures have allowed the group to eliminate some 1,900 positions," said SIA.

"As a result, the potential job cuts across the group may be reduced to around 2,400 in Singapore and across SIA's overseas stations," it added.

"Discussions have begun with our Singapore-based unions. The group will work closely with them to finalise the arrangements as soon as possible for those affected, and try to minimise the stress and anxiety on our people."

In a media release, SIA Group said the decision was taken in light of the "long road to recovery for the global airline industry due to the debilitating impact of the COVID-19 pandemic", adding that there is an "urgent need" for its airlines to adapt to an uncertain future.