Emirates Pay Increase
Colleagues –
The past financial year has been an incredibly difficult one for the worldwide airline industry and for Emirates this has been no exception. The difference between this last year and the previous one could not be more dramatic. After record profits for us in the Financial Year 2007-2008 we have found the commercial environment in 2008-2009 far more of a challenge.
In an effort to focus on job security and continuance of employment, in January, the company, after much deliberation, took the decision to implement a freeze on all pay reviews across the organisation. This decision has continued to be monitored carefully and is still in place. As such, there will be no change to the current flight crew remuneration package that is usually announced around this time of the year. The 3% step increase to base pay, which we have historically provided pilots, will also not be paid this year. I fully recognize that this will be a disappointment to you, but believe that you understand the rationale behind these difficult decisions. We will continue to review the situation carefully and, as we emerge from what is clearly a difficult period, may reassess this decision so that we do not unduly prolong these measures.
Alan, Martin and I would like to take this opportunity to thank you for your loyalty and professionalism in supporting our highly demanding operation. As we go through this challenging time the greatest contribution we can make as a pilot group to sustained profitability, business and personal success is to ensure a safe flight operation.
Regards,
Horseman