Qatar Airways Confronts Fresh Challenges in Optimizing Australian Routes. Amidst ongoing scrutiny surrounding the federal government’s rejection of Qatar Airways’ request for additional flights to Australia, Jason Clare, a prominent member of the Labor frontbench, has urged the airline to make the most of its existing routes to Australia.
Challenges in Expanding Australian Routes
A Senate inquiry has been actively investigating the reasons behind the denial of extra flights to Qatar Airways and whether the domestic carrier Qantas had any influence on this decision.
Exploring Potential for Qatar Airways in Australian Routes
Mr. Clare pointed out that Qatar Airways could potentially enhance its operations in Australia by fully utilizing its existing flight slots. In an interview with Sky News, he emphasized that before seeking additional flights, the airline should concentrate on maximizing its current capacity. He likened this situation to a child requesting dessert before finishing their dinner.
Insights from a Senate Inquiry
During a recent Senate inquiry, Fathi Atti, a representative from Qatar Airways, indicated that the government had not advised the airline to increase the number of flights to secondary airports or to employ larger aircraft.
Inquiry into Qantas Executives
In the same Senate inquiry, executives from Qantas, including the new CEO Vanessa Hudson and chair Richard Goyder, faced questions regarding their awareness of the government’s decision to deny Qatar Airways additional flights. Notably, former Qantas CEO Alan Joyce did not attend the inquiry due to overseas commitments.
Summoning Alan Joyce for Inquiry
Coalition senators have expressed their intent to summon Mr. Joyce to appear before the inquiry upon his return to Australia. Inquiry chair, Nationals senator Bridget McKenzie, even mentioned the possibility of legal action, including the potential for jail time, to compel Mr. Joyce’s testimony.
Authority to Impose Penalties
The Senate holds the authority to impose penalties, including imprisonment for up to six months, in cases of contempt.
Mr. Joyce Absence from Inquiry
Mr. Joyce informed the Senate committee that he couldn’t participate in the inquiry in person or via video link due to personal commitments abroad.
Impact of the Inquiry on Qantas
Senator McKenzie acknowledged that the inquiry had revealed significant misconduct by Qantas, leading the airline to reverse certain policies, such as its Frequent Flyers program. She emphasized that these changes were not solely due to the appointment of a new CEO.
Transport Minister Role
While the inquiry lacked the authority to compel Transport Minister Catherine King, a member of the House of Representatives, to testify, Senator McKenzie stressed the importance of Ms. King appearing and explaining why she believed blocking additional flights for Qatar Airways was the right decision.
Government Response
Ms. King had previously justified her decision based on national security concerns. The Senate committee is scheduled to release its report by October 9th.
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