Korean carrier puts cabin crew on 2 months' unpaid leave as Middle East war drives $178M loss
South Korean low-cost airline T'way Air announced that some cabin crew members will take voluntary unpaid leave during May and June. The company said the program would help reduce employee fatigue and adjust to recent flight schedule cuts. However, the decision also reflects the airline’s growing financial problems caused by rising fuel prices and increasing losses.
T'way Air’s financial situation has worsened quickly in recent years. The airline reported a much larger operating loss in 2025 compared to 2024, even though its revenue increased. Experts say the company spent heavily on expanding long-haul international routes after the merger between Korean Air and Asiana Airlines. T'way began flying to major cities such as Rome, Paris, Barcelona, and Frankfurt.
The airline has also faced operational difficulties. Reports say that its Airbus A330 aircraft experienced repeated technical problems, causing delays and cancellations on long-distance flights. Because of these concerns, T'way sharply increased its spending on safety and maintenance in 2024 and 2025.
The recent conflict involving Iran made the situation even more difficult. Jet fuel prices in Asia rose dramatically after military strikes involving the United States and Israel. Since fuel usually makes up about 30 percent of airline operating costs, the increase placed heavy pressure on airlines. T'way became the first Korean airline to enter emergency management mode, and several other airlines later followed with flight cuts and service suspensions.
Other South Korean low-cost carriers are also reducing flights because of fuel costs and supply problems. Airlines such as Eastar Jet, Air Busan, Jin Air, and Air Premia have canceled or reduced services on several international routes. Despite a temporary ceasefire, experts warn that fuel prices and airline supply chains may take months to recover. T'way Air is expected to change its name to Trinity Airways in late 2026 after being acquired by the Daemyung Sono Group.
Edited using generative AI tools.
Source: https://e.vnexpress.net/news/news/traffic/korean-carrier-puts-cabin-crew-on-2-months-unpaid-leave-as-middle-east-war-drives-178m-loss-5062165.html |
