QFA does more right than wrong. Don't have to like the individual in charge, that isn't what he is being paid for, he is working for the investors and thats about the end of that. QF competes in a global market which is mainly at a disadvantage from AUS cost base on staffing and local infrastructure costs. Given that, it is hard to blame the one that is low on xmas gift list for taking action to reduce costs. For all that, QFA has a very high cost base, yet still makes a profit. So, why would anyone want to change the game? Anyone else going into the hot seat is going to be as agressive or more so in cost control than the current incumbent. Beware what you wish for,
To what costs do you refer?
Would that be fuel costs, for your assertion is correct. They have a very high fuel cost base per ASK.
With respect to the other costs, being denominated in AUD has been claimed both an advantage and a disadvantage.
They do have high back office headcount relative to other airlines.
So were the replacement to remove excess non-operational headcount then that might help the cost base.
As of 24th July 2019, number 15 on the list of biggest shareholders was Alan Joyce, so yes self evidently, he works for the investors (shareholders), most of the rest of which are nominee companies of foreign entities.