A Scandalous Pay Disparity at Cathay Pacific

HONG KONG – The mood among pilots at Cathay Pacific is anything but upbeat as the Hong Kong Aircrew Officers Association (HKAOA) speaks out against recent salary increases for airline executives. With the company grappling with operational hurdles, the union’s outcry highlights a shocking mismatch between executive compensation and the reality faced by frontline staff.

Stunning Compensation Packages for Executives

A stark revelation from Cathay Pacific’s 2024 annual report lays bare the eye-popping pay packages awarded to top executives. CEO Ronald Lam now praises a payday of HK$14.15 million, marking a jaw-dropping 35% increase from his HK$10.46 million salary the previous year. Not to be outdone, Alexander McGowan, Chief Operations and Service Delivery Officer, saw his remuneration soar nearly 77% from HK$4.63 million to HK$8.18 million.

Meanwhile, pilots and cabin crew are left grappling with the aftermath of pandemic-induced pay cuts and unfavorable contract revisions, raising questions about the airline's priorities.

Calls for Immediate Action

The HKAOA has raised urgent concerns regarding staffing shortages, which contribute to high ticket prices. They are demanding an immediate reinstatement of pre-COVID contract terms to restore fair treatment for frontline staff. In light of nearly HK$10 billion in profits and the airline's accolades at the Skytrax Awards, many are puzzled as to why executive pay is prioritized over employee conditions.

Hong Kong Airport Rises in Global Esteem

Despite Cathay Pacific's internal strife, Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA) is basking in global recognition. Climbing to 6th place in the Skytrax rankings—up five spots from 11th—HKIA now stands among the world’s elite airports, right behind Singapore Changi and Doha Hamad.

A New Milestone for Hong Kong Immigration Services

Additionally, the Hong Kong Immigration Department (ImmD) has captured a prestigious Skytrax Award for Best Airport Immigration Service for 2025, marking a remarkable fifth win. It’s a proud moment amidst a tumultuous period in the aviation industry, as the department continues to garner accolades.

The Bottom Line: A Troubling Corporate Culture

The situation at Cathay Pacific paints a disheartening picture of a corporate culture where only the upper echelons benefit from financial success. While executives enjoy hefty pay raises, the teams who ensure smooth operations and customer satisfaction bear the brunt of economic hardships. As the HKAOA advocates for fairness, the call for equity in executive versus employee pay becomes ever more crucial. Stay tuned as this story develops.