{
  "id": 8399858,
  "title": "Don’t lay off staff to cut costs, union urges AirAsia",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/19/dont-lay-off-staff-to-cut-costs-union-urges-airasia-8399858",
  "topic": "business",
  "section": "Business",
  "published": "2026-09-19T05:48:23.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Free Malaysia Today",
    "slug": "free-malaysia-today",
    "url": "https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/nation/2026/09/19/don-t-lay-off-staff-to-cut-costs-union-urges-airasia"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "The National Union of Flight Attendants Malaysia (Nufam) has called on AirAsia not to reduce its workforce amid the financial challenges faced by the low-cost carrier, primarily due to the increase in jet fuel prices triggered by the Iran conflict. Nufam stressed that cabin crew, pilots, engineers, and ground staff are often the initial victims of pay cuts or job security reductions when companies face financial difficulties. The union noted that AirAsia has already suspended several routes and incurred substantial quarterly losses, which could lead to further workforce reductions.\n\nWhile AirAsia attempts to maneuver through these economic hardships resulting from high jet fuel prices and the Middle East crisis, Nufam strongly believes that the airline's employees should not bear the brunt of these fiscal pressures. Instead of implementing internal cost-cutting measures that endanger job security, Nufam suggests AirAsia explore more sustainable financial rescue and fundraising strategies. The union urged the airline to keep employees informed about its plans and ensure they are assured that no layoffs will occur. Nufam also appealed to the public to remain fair and constructive in their opinions on AirAsia's struggles, acknowledging that the airline has benefited millions through affordable airfares and unprecedented connectivity.\n\nNotably, AirAsia Group Bhd co-founder Tony Fernandes denied that the airline was seeking a government bailout, stating that its operations remain sustainable. He also clarified that AirAsia is not looking for US$3 billion in fresh capital, but rather US$1 billion to refinance existing loans and repay some creditors. Bloomberg reported that the low-cost carrier had sold six newly delivered aircraft since the beginning of the previous year, including two in July, as a result of its financial situation. It was highlighted as unusual for airlines to sell aircraft without ever putting them into service.",
  "summary": "Nufam says cabin crew, pilots, engineers and ground staff are often the first to be affected when airlines face financial strain.",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 2,
    "also_reported_by": [
      {
        "outlet": "Free Malaysia Today",
        "title": "Don’t lay off staff to cut costs, union urges AirAsia",
        "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/19/dont-lay-off-staff-to-cut-costs-union-urges-airasia",
        "published": "2026-09-19T05:48:23.000Z"
      }
    ]
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}