Trouble is, at least in 2006 there was still a relatively healthy job market for those brave enough to take Geoff's dollar and try their hand at a new job in the real world. After 2001 and 2006 restructures, the people who left always looked happier compared to those who stayed.
Given that the airline market is contracting, and will for some time yet, it makes sense to downsize any areas relating to capital investment, and they always had too many people in some departments, especially Group!
Sad for the people involved, but probably the right decision for the company.