As the ongoing conflict in the Middle East continues to drive up fuel prices, Air Premia, a long-haul low-cost carrier, has announced it will implement unpaid leave for its employees.
On May 22, the airline informed its current full-time cabin crew that it would accept applications for unpaid leave. The leave period is set to begin on July 1 and last for one month, with the possibility of extending unpaid leave into August if high fuel prices persist.
In its announcement, Air Premia stated, "Due to the prolonged conflict in Iran leading to high fuel prices and exchange rates, we are experiencing numerous flight reductions. Therefore, we will offer voluntary unpaid leave for cabin crew within the limits of available personnel in July."
This decision is seen as part of a broader trend among low-cost carriers (LCCs) to reduce operational costs amid rising exchange rates, increasing international oil prices, and a slowdown in travel demand.
Previously, Jeju Air, the leading LCC in South Korea, began accepting applications for unpaid leave from cabin crew on May 8. Jin Air has also adjusted the hiring schedule for about 50 prospective cabin crew members to the second half of the year.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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