Cathay Pacific Pilots Aren’t ‘Learned’ Under Wage Law Exemption

Cathay Pacific Airways Ltd. pilots aren’t “learned professionals” exempt from certain California wage protections, a federal judge said, rejecting the company’s summary judgment bid.

Although commercial pilots perform important work requiring highly technical and specialized expertise, “no reasonable juror could conclude that the airline pilots in this case meet the definition of a learned professional,” the US District Court for the Northern District of California said Monday.

• Cathay Pacific violated state wage-and-hour laws, including by failing to pay overtime and minimum wage and to provide proper meal and rest breaks, according to the proposed class complaint
• The relevant regulations are ...