Hong Kong (CNN) — Senior executives of a Chinese airline have been disciplined after one of its pilots was found to have allowed a young woman to enter an airplane cockpit mid-flight, sparking concerns over flight safety.
The photo, which was posted by the woman herself, went viral on Chinese social media, prompting the airline to announce on Monday the suspension of the pilot from flying duties “for life” and an investigation to look into the incident.
When the pilot’s suspension failed to calm the controversy, senior executives were also held accountable for his actions.
Xu Xin, the airline’s CEO, was given a “serious warning” and a three-month salary cut. General manager Qu Taoji received a “major warning,” a three-month salary cut and demotion to a lower management level.
The deputy manager of the maintenance department Yang Wenzhong, safety director Yin Ruiji, and general manager of the air security department Shi Ziqiao were also given a three-month pay cut.
The internal document, which was signed by Xu himself, said the airline decided to take additional disciplinary actions on Tuesday against the “responsible persons” following an investigation.
Air Guilin received heavy criticism from Chinese state media outlets after the photo came to light, which may have prompted it to take additional measures to shoulder responsibility and regain public trust.
