The Australian Services Union (ASU) has requested an urgent meeting with Qantas (QF, Sydney Kingsford Smith) chief executive Vanessa Hudson regarding the airline's artificial intelligence strategy. The union is seeking clarification after Hudson commented on the technology earlier in May 2026. The ASU claims AI deployment is an "active programme of major workforce change" directly linked to cost reduction and headcount impacts.

Hudson stated that AI tools had already improved on-time performance by three to four points. The technology integrates maintenance records and weather patterns. The union demand follows the elimination of 400 head office roles earlier in 2026.