Why Cathay Pacific Is Bending to China on Hong Kong Protests
Beijing’s anger over protest-supporting airline staff puts carrier in no-win situation between blocked routes and alienated customers.
Policing political views of employees would be a nightmare for Cathay.
Photographer: Anthony Kwan/Getty Images
Airlines are fundamental to the self-image of sovereign territories. The largest one in any country is routinely dubbed a “flag carrier,” as if it was the leader of a naval squadron. No wonder Beijing has it in for Cathay Pacific Airways Ltd.
China’s civil aviation authority has ordered Cathay to bar air crew who supported Hong Kong’s recent protests from working on flights to or from mainland China, citing bogus threats to aviation safety. It also told the airline to submit information about all crew flying over mainland Chinese airspace for pre-approval. Cathay’s Chief Executive Officer Rupert Hogg swiftly responded that the carrier would comply with the new rules.