The Transport Workers’ Union says Bonza’s more than 300 staff have been sacked in a “dark day” for Australia’s aviation industry, with an announcement about the collapsed airline’s future expected later today.
“This is incredibly difficult news for Bonza employees who have received no pay for more than two months after the airline’s sudden collapse,” TWU National Secretary Michael Kaine said.
“It’s a dark day for regional communities across Australia which remain isolated through unaffordable or unavailable air travel to remain connected with the nation.”
Administrators Hall Chadwick are expected to release a statement about Bonza’s future this afternoon.
The administrators had been looking to sell the airline and had set a deadline of last Friday for interested potential buyers to submit an offer.
However, they reportedly received no offers.
The airline had only begun operating in early 2023.
Kaine said the hundreds of lost jobs showed the need for extra regulation in the aviation industry.
“Workers remain in limbo, with the Fair Entitlement Guarantee scheme not yet available to claim their owed entitlements,” he said.
“Today, they gained the freedom to pursue alternative full-time work, with Virgin Australia having previously committed to prioritising Bonza staff.
“It’s highly likely aviation will lose hundreds more skilled, experienced staff after being burnt so many times in this industry.
“Aviation has been decimated over recent years… we urgently need a Safe and Secure Skies Commission to repair and rebuild a strong, sustainable aviation industry.”
