Hong Kong-based Cathay Pacific Airways is confronting a growing problem of employee theft involving onboard amenities. The airline says the losses add up to “hundreds of millions of dollars” over time and include a wide range of items, from pens and utensils to wine glasses, food and bottles of alcohol.
A company spokeswoman confirmed that, in response to the increasing number of reported losses, Cathay Pacific has warned cabin crew that random inspections will be conducted. “We are dealing with cases in a fair and reasonable manner in accordance with standard internal procedure,” she said.
Management is currently investigating several recent incidents in which employees were found with company merchandise. Staff were also warned about the issue earlier in the year through an internal email sent in January.
Ed Higgs, general manager of in‑flight services at Cathay Pacific, explained the policy and its implications for crew leaving aircraft. He said employees will be subject to inspection by a security team “for any items that you may have in your possession when you have been or are on company property.” He emphasized a zero‑tolerance stance: “You are not permitted to take off the aircraft any item other than what the company has authorized as per the policy. If anyone removes company property, irrespective of the value or if you believe it will be thrown away, you will be subject to discipline which may include termination.”
The airline’s move to increase spot checks aims to deter further losses and make clear the consequences of removing company property without authorization. By formalizing inspections and reminding staff of policy, Cathay Pacific seeks to protect its onboard inventory and reduce the operational and financial impact of missing items.
Beyond the direct cost of replaced and missing items, such theft can affect service standards and create logistical challenges for crew who rely on stocked amenities to serve passengers. Cathay Pacific’s internal measures indicate a broader effort to reinforce accountability among employees while addressing an issue that has persisted across the industry.
As investigations continue, the airline has said it will apply disciplinary procedures consistently and fairly, following established internal processes. The enforcement actions are intended both to resolve current cases and to discourage future incidents, ensuring that cabin supplies remain available for passenger use and that company property is protected.