Qantas confirms contingency plans in place for Iraq war

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Qantas confirms contingency plans in place for Iraq war

Qantas says contingency plans are in place in the event of a war on Iraq -- but it'srefused to say whether they include the sacking of 2,500 staff.

A spokeswoman says the airline does have contingency plans for the inevitable downturnin travel that would follow a Middle East war.

Unions have accused Qantas of leaking rumours of the sackings in a bid to boost shareprices ahead of tomorrow's half yearly profit results.

Analysts predict Qantas is set to announce its profits have doubled.

The Australian Services Union and Transport Workers Union are seeking urgent meetingswith the airline today over the rumours.

War on Iraq could cause a downturn in international travel of up to 20 per cent.

AAP sal/sb/sco/rp

KEYWORD: IRAQ QANTAS (CANBERRA)