Why was Cassandra Cooke sacked by National Jet Express?

Cassandra Cooke was sacked after alleging her Chief Pilot, Wayne Ovens, 'hates women' and was having marital problems, leading to a finding that she breached the airline's harassment policy.

Did the Fair Work Commission rule in favor of the pilot?

Yes, the Fair Work Commission found the pilot's dismissal disproportionate due to the airline's inconsistent handling of disciplinary actions and ordered her reinstatement.

Will the pilot receive back pay for the time she was dismissed?

No, the Fair Work Commission declined to award back pay to the pilot for the months she was out of work.

Home / Crime and Justice / Pilot Wins Job Back After Sexist Boss Claim

Pilot Wins Job Back After Sexist Boss Claim

14 Feb

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Summary

Pilot sacked for alleging her boss hates women.
Fair Work Commission found dismissal disproportionate.
Pilot reinstated but denied back pay.

Pilot Wins Job Back After Sexist Boss Claim

A pilot with 27 years of service has been reinstated to her position after being dismissed by National Jet Express. The pilot, Cassandra Cooke, alleged that her Chief Pilot, Wayne Ovens, harbored sexist views.

Ms. Cooke was dismissed on May 26, 2025, following an investigation that found she breached the airline's harassment policy. This stemmed from comments she made about Mr. Ovens being a 'woman hater' and experiencing marital issues.

However, the Fair Work Commission found inconsistencies in the airline's investigation and disciplinary procedures compared to past practices. A prior complaint by Ms. Cooke involving misogynistic language from Mr. Ovens was handled informally.

While acknowledging misconduct, the commission deemed the dismissal too harsh given her long service and sole provider status. Ms. Cooke was ordered reinstated, but the commission denied back pay, issuing a clear message about her conduct.

National Jet Express, which celebrated 35 years in 2025, did not have to back pay Ms. Cooke, marking their only win in the case.

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