Qantas ex-CEO Joyce plots return as he defends record

Alan Joyce dramatically quit as Qantas Airways Ltd’s boss in 2023 following a flood of passenger complaints, illegal firings and concerns from Australia’s competition watchdog. Now he’s defending his controversial record — and wants to return to the industry.

- ANGUS WHITLEY

“My intent is to still have a role in aviation,’ Mr Joyce, 59, said after speaking at a conference in Sydney yesterday. “I'm very passionate about certain areas.”

Mr Joyce's speech marked his first major public appearance since he left Qantas after 15 years at the helm. Once among aviation’s highest-profile leaders, he’s been barely visible in Australia in the past two years. Mr Joyce declined to answer specific questions about what work he might do in Australia, the current performance of Qantas, or his treatment by the airline following his departure.