In response to a deteriorating labor strike concerning pay and conditions, Qantas Airways Ltd has grounded all its domestic and international flights, a decision that will keep flights suspended until at least Sunday.
This unexpected action surprised the government, prompting it to request a rare intervention from the industrial-relations authority—Fair Work Australia—to put an end to the strike. An emergency meeting was convened late Saturday, and after reviewing Qantas’s evidence, the proceedings were postponed until Sunday. If the government’s appeal succeeds, it would compel both parties to negotiate during a 21-day period in which neither can engage in industrial action.
The impacts have been widespread, affecting thousands of passengers globally, with over 13,000 travelers scheduled to arrive in Australia within the next 24 hours. Additionally, 108 aircraft were grounded across 22 airports worldwide.
Qantas has offered refunds and has committed to covering food and accommodation costs for those caught in transit.
In this situation, rival airlines such as Virgin Australia have taken the opportunity to announce plans to increase their capacity.
