This would have a positive effect on Qantas' operational costs but will require an accelerated capital outlay for new aircraft. Job cuts Rumours in the media suggest that anywhere between 1,000 and 6,000 Australian jobs could be cut by Qantas on Thursday. Qantas already announced in December that at least 1,000 jobs would be lost through the rationalisation of existing maintenance facilities, however if the fleet renewal program is brought forward it could result in additional job losses to cheaper overseas firms that specialise in aircraft maintenance. Again, this would improve Qantas' operational costs; however damage to the Qantas brand may make this unpalatable in the short term. Asset sales The last major rumour includes the sale and leaseback of its airport facilities in Brisbane and Melbourne. This would free up capital for debt reduction, but would increase the operational costs of the company over the long term due to the new leases.