In a move that has sparked outrage among the Australian and International Pilots Association (AIPA), Qantas has announced its decision to wet-lease two Finnair aircraft, a move that will see Qantas passengers being flown by Finnair crew and pilots for a duration of two and a half years. The AIPA President, Captain Tony Lucas, has condemned this decision as a significant failure of management, expressing profound disappointment and frustration.

Captain Lucas criticized Qantas, stating, “Qantas’ decision to wet lease two Finnair aircraft is shocking, bitterly disappointing, and could have been avoided with more effective management decisions.” He added, “It beggars belief that Qantas is outsourcing the Spirit of Australia while simultaneously converting two of our own A330 passenger aircraft into freighters.”

The AIPA President highlighted that the decision to wet lease the Finnair aircraft highlights the flaws in Qantas’ fleet planning processes over the past five years, particularly during the pandemic recovery period. The outsourcing of jobs not only impacts hardworking and dedicated pilots and disappoints loyal Qantas passengers who expect to “feel like home” when stepping onto a Qantas aircraft.

The move to bring in another carrier to operate these routes is also significantly more expensive than operating the services within Qantas itself, which adds to the frustration of the AIPA. Captain Lucas emphasized, “This is a sad day for our great airline.”

Qantas has been facing financial challenges due to the global pandemic, severely impacting the aviation industry. However, the decision to outsource flights to Finnair has sparked concerns about the long-term impact on Australian jobs and the airline’s commitment to its employees.

The Australian public has been closely monitoring Qantas’ management decisions, particularly about the recovery and future operations of the airline. Outsourcing flights to a foreign carrier raises questions about the airline’s commitment to maintaining jobs and supporting the Australian aviation industry.

In response to the controversy, Qantas spokesperson Sarah Wilson defended the decision, stating that it was made after careful consideration and in the airline’s and its passengers’ best interest. She emphasized that Qantas remains committed to maintaining a solid and efficient fleet and that the wet leasing arrangement with Finnair temporarily addresses operational needs during this challenging period.

The AIPA, however, remains resolute in its disappointment and frustration with Qantas. Captain Lucas urged the airline to reconsider its decision and prioritize the interests of its employees and loyal passengers. The association called for more transparent and effective management practices to prevent further outsourcing Australian jobs.

As the industry continues to navigate the uncertainties caused by the pandemic, the outsourcing decision by Qantas serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges airlines worldwide face. The repercussions of such decisions extend beyond the immediate operational concerns, impacting employees, customers, and the overall perception of the airline.

It remains to be seen how Qantas will address the concerns raised by the AIPA and whether the airline will revise its decision in light of the backlash. In the meantime, loyal passengers are left disappointed and concerned about the “Spirit of Australia” future as Qantas charts its path to recovery.

Written by: Jill Walsh

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