Cathay Pacific Slammed Over Executive Pay Hike
Despite posting nearly HK$10 billion in profits and winning global awards, Cathay Pacific is under scrutiny as pilots protest executive pay hikes while frontline workers remain underpaid and overworked.
Photo Source: Aviation A2Z
Cathay Pacific is under fire after the airline’s latest annual report revealed substantial executive pay hikes, sparking criticism from its pilot union. The Hong Kong Aircrew Officers Association (HKAOA) voiced strong concerns over what it described as an “alarming disparity” between skyrocketing executive compensation and stagnant conditions for frontline employees.
According to the 2024 financial disclosures, CEO Ronald Lam received a 35% salary increase, bringing his total compensation to HK$14.15 million, up from HK$10.46 million in 2023. Even more striking was the 77% pay rise for Chief Operations and Service Delivery Officer Alexander McGowan, whose remuneration jumped from HK$4.63 million to HK$8.18 million.
The union pointed out that while Cathay reported profits nearing HK$10 billion, pilots and cabin crew continue to face the consequences of pandemic-era salary cuts and contract changes. Many staff are still operating under significantly reduced terms, with minimal signs of post-COVID recovery support from the airline.
In its official statement, the HKAOA urged the airline to reinstate pre-pandemic contract provisions and address persistent staffing shortages that it says contribute to higher ticket prices and compromised operational efficiency.
Hong Kong’s aviation sector has recently celebrated several milestones. Hong Kong International Airport climbed to the 6th spot globally in the latest Skytrax rankings, while the Hong Kong Immigration Department earned the 2025 Skytrax Award for Best Airport Immigration Service — its fifth win in the category.
Despite these achievements, the internal friction within Cathay Pacific raises questions about its corporate priorities, as employees responsible for daily operations continue to feel overlooked in favor of upper management.
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