Media Releases

Travel update – Qantas engineers strike and ash cloud developments

30 June 2011

Qantas is preparing for possible strike action next week following notice from the Australian Licenced Aircraft Engineers Association (ALAEA) that it will take industrial action as part of an ongoing dispute over pay and conditions.

The carrier is currently assessing the impact of rolling two-hour work stoppages by engineers starting in Melbourne Monday 4 July, followed by Perth on Tuesday. It is expected the union today will announce further strike action for other capital cities including Brisbane.

Travellers are advised there may be flight disruptions and delays for Qantas flights around the country if the strike action goes ahead.

Meanwhile, flight disruptions continue in New Zealand as the ash cloud from Chile's volcano heads north. Flights are now being affected in Christchurch and Wellington.

Qantas and Jetstar have suspended flights to and from Queenstown, Christchurch and Wellington for today. Most other airlines are operating as per normal. Contact your travel manager to confirm flights and for further information.