Cathay Pacific Airways (CX) has announced a bonus of at least one month’s salary for its employees. This decision reflects the airline’s strong financial performance in 2024 and its successful recovery after the pandemic.
The bonus reflects the airline’s return to 100 per cent of its pre-COVID flight capacity this month, signalling the completion of its operational rebuild. The company’s strong financial performance over the past two years has also enabled it to commit over HK$100 billion (US$12.8 billion) to enhancing customer experiences and sustaining long-term growth.
Cathay Pacific reported its first annual profit in four years in 2023, earning HK$9.78 billion after consecutive losses during the pandemic. Despite a 15.3 per cent dip in net profits to HK$3.61 billion in the first half of 2024 due to normalising airfares, the group has forecasted stronger financial results for the second half, driven by increased cargo demand and reduced fuel prices.
Last year, Cathay Pacific’s profit-sharing initiatives included up to 7.2 weeks of eligible pay for some employees and a one-month discretionary bonus announced in October. These payouts, alongside the latest bonus, underline the company’s appreciation for its staff’s dedication and hard work during challenging times.
Cathay Pacific also made significant strides in workforce expansion, recruiting nearly 7,000 new employees in 2024. This included 5,000 cabin crew, more than three times the number hired in 2023, as well as pilots, engineers, airport teams, and IT professionals. The company’s headcount now exceeds 30,000, reinforcing its operational capacity and readiness for future growth.
This announcement positions Cathay Pacific among the industry leaders in employee recognition, rewarding efforts that have been instrumental in achieving its financial and operational milestones. The airline’s commitment to its workforce reflects confidence in its sustained recovery and long-term success.
