China Ex-Pat Pilots Leave - Will Contracts Be Renewed?

What we know so far. Chinese airlines have stood down the majority if not all ex-pat pilots and advised them to the leave the country in the wake of the Coronavirus epidemic and off the back of the 737 Max grounding. Their combined impact has had a significant effect on reduced demand. 

We now have upwards of 400 pilots across China who have been sent home on leave without pay with uncertain futures.

But does it end there? The state of play for ex-pat pilots in China is about to change long term as more high hours pilots hit the job market.

The lay of land:

- Cathay Pacific; 27,000 employees asked to take unpaid leave.

- China Southern put all foreign pilots on unpaid leave from 4/2 followed by Xiamen. Hainan and Beijing Capital have released all of their pilots plus other 737 carriers following suit.

- Most if not all China based airlines have notified ex-pat pilots to leave their borders. Except China Eastern who have given pilots the option to stay.

- The number of ex-pat pilots seeking alternative roles in the wake of the instability in China has increased in since December 2019.

As other factors come to light, this group of highly experienced pilots will be reconsidering their futures as they are faced with a region once again at the forefront of economic and health adversity.

Other factors for Pilots to consider:

- Employment contracts up for renewal may not be renewed at ex-pat rates, but under local terms.

- Recruiters are anticipating that many ex-pat contracts will simply not be renewed in light of the reduced demand and capacity cuts.

The flip side:

Experienced high hours pilots are in demand globally.

Narrow and Wide Body carriers seeking experienced type rated First Officers and Captains have an opportunity to engage with an unexpected level of talent, will they seize the opportunity?

Carpe Diem.

Kirsty Anne Ferguson is a global aviation interview coach, author and industry mentor for over 20 years. Her team of highly experienced coaches, resume writers and mentors are on-line to assist with concerns, questions and unbiased career advice/options. GET IN TOUCH: www.pinstripesolutions.com or [email protected]