Omicron Variant Positive And Violates COVID-19 Rules, Two Cathay Pacific Crew Fired

Illustration of the Cathay Pacific fleet. (Wikimedia Commons/LN9267)

JAKARTA - Hong Kong's main carrier Cathay Pacific Airways said on Saturday that two of its crew members who tested positive for the Omicron variant were fired for violating medical surveillance regulations related to COVID-19.

Cathay said five of its flight crew had tested positive after they returned to Hong Kong from duty, and an investigation into the cases indicated a serious violation of protocol by them.

"Failure to comply with medical surveillance regulations will lead to disciplinary procedures. Two of the individuals are no longer employed by Cathay Pacific," the airline said in a statement.

There are no further details regarding this. It is known that these regulations include spending a period of quarantine at home after flying.

"The actions of these people are deeply disappointing, as they undermine the exemplary dedication and obedience shown by our more than 10,000 flight crew," Cathay said, adding health authorities would work together to strengthen public health protection.

Earlier, Hong Kong health officials said on Friday the Omicron variant of the coronavirus had passed some of the world's toughest COVID-19 restrictions, with the city reporting its first case outside of its strict quarantine system.

The government said on Saturday it was investigating eight additional Omicron cases in Hong Kong.