“The actual number of employees being made redundant was around 5,900, including around 5,300 Hong Kong-based employees. Another 600 employees based outside of Hong Kong may also be affected, subject to local regulatory requirements,'' he said.

The Transport and Housing Bureau has requested the Cathay Pacific Group, in adjusting its operation mode and scale, to fully consider the potential impact on Hong Kong's status as an international aviation hub and the aviation network, he said.

“The Cathay Pacific Group should also maintain its core team and suitable talents, to ensure that the group is well equipped to start off again after the epidemic and to provide impetus for the relaunch of the local aviation industry as well as Hong Kong’s overall economy.''