Cathay Pacific Allows Masks for Crew on China Routes... "Should Expand to All Routes"

Photo by Sunmi Park, Beijing Correspondent

[Asia Economy Reporter Jeong Hyunjin] As the novel coronavirus infection originating in Wuhan, China spreads worldwide including the United States, Hong Kong Cathay Pacific crew members have demanded protective measures. While flight attendants on routes to and from mainland China are allowed to wear masks, they pointed out that this should be extended to all routes.

According to the South China Morning Post (SCMP) on the 22nd, Cathay Pacific announced the day before that crew members on flights to and from mainland China are permitted to wear masks. This measure was taken as the novel coronavirus infection is reported to be transmissible between people.

However, the Cathay Pacific flight attendants’ union stated that this measure is insufficient and requested that it be applied to all employees. The union explained that wearing masks to prepare for the deadly virus that has claimed lives is a basic human right, and that emails and messages from concerned employees about the virus have been pouring in.

In a statement, the union said, "It is time for the company to listen to employees’ concerns and allow all staff to wear masks on all flights," adding, "Such measures will not only alleviate the anxiety of frontline employees but also send a message that Cathay Pacific is making every effort to ensure passenger safety." They warned that if these measures are not implemented quickly, the result could be a "catastrophe."

Cathay Pacific said it is closely monitoring the situation and cooperating with Hong Kong health authorities, and that passengers boarding flights from Wuhan to Hong Kong will be provided with masks and disinfectant wipes at the boarding gate.

Meanwhile, Chinese authorities announced that the number of confirmed Wuhan pneumonia cases has risen to 440, with 9 deaths. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported on the 21st (local time) that a resident near Seattle, Washington, who recently traveled to Wuhan, China, was diagnosed as a patient infected with the novel coronavirus causing Wuhan pneumonia.