Ever since the Wuhan virus outbreak, many countries have had to take drastic measures to ensure that the virus does not spread any further than it already has.
Several countries have already blocked flights from China while others have blocked any Chinese citzens from entering the country. This means that flights to and from China and other infected countries have been greatly reduced, causing a fall in demand for airlines services.
Cathay Pacific has asked all 27,000 of its employees to take up to three weeks of unpaid leave after the airlines faced a fall in demand caused by the Wuhan virus outbreak.
According to CNA, the Hong Kong flagship carrier plans to cut about 30 percent of capacity over the next two months, including about 90 percent of flights to mainland China.
“I am hoping all of you will participate, from our frontline employees to our senior leaders, and to share in our current challenges,” CEO Augustus Tang said on Wednesday (Feb 5th).
The special leave scheme will commence from 1st March to 30th June, and although it is not mandatory, it is encouraged, a spokeswoman said.
As of today, 12 people in Malaysia have confirmed to be infected with the virus – nine are Chinese nationals and another three are Malaysians.
Also read: 2 More Locals Test Positive for Wuhan Virus, Total of 12 Confirmed Cases in Malaysia For Now