Emirates has offered some of its pilots one year unpaid leave in efforts to cut loss incurred as results of the pandemic effects on the travel industry, reports say.
“We can confirm that we’ve offered some of our pilots unpaid leave for 12 months, with the possibility of an early recall back to duty depending on how quickly demand rebounds and our operational requirements,” an Emirates spokeswoman said on Wednesday.
The airline however insists that it will cover the accommodation, medical insurance and provide other allowances to those on unpaid leave. Most of the airline’s employees are foreigners therefore are not eligible for government benefits in the United Arab Emirates for businesses and workers affected by the pandemic.
Emirates, like entire other airlines, has been severely battered by the shrink in the global travel industry despite receiving government lifeline support. The Dubai-based company has also cut thousands of jobs including employment on its aircraft and slashed salaries.
Emirates begs some pilots to accept one year unpaid leave
