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Union calls on AirAsia to protect jobs amid cost pressures

Malaysia's National Union of Flight Attendants has urged the airline to avoid staff reductions as a cost-cutting measure. The union warned that operational workers often bear the brunt when carriers face financial challenges.

LSN Malaysia · 19 September 2026

Union calls on AirAsia to protect jobs amid cost pressures

The National Union of Flight Attendants and Related Workers (Nufam) has appealed to AirAsia to refrain from laying off employees to manage costs, citing the disproportionate impact on frontline workers during periods of financial strain.

Nufam emphasised that cabin crew, pilots, engineers and ground staff are routinely the first positions eliminated when airlines seek to reduce expenses. The union's call comes amid ongoing economic pressures facing the aviation sector, which has experienced significant disruption in recent years.

The appeal underscores broader concerns within Malaysia's aviation workforce about job security and employment stability. Industry observers note that cost management strategies adopted by carriers can substantially affect worker welfare and operational quality.

AirAsia, as one of the region's largest budget carriers, has previously navigated challenging financial periods. The union's intervention reflects worker concern over how the airline may respond to future economic headwinds and the need for balanced approaches to financial management that protect employment.