Aer Lingus pilots are balloting for industrial action in their ongoing pay dispute, potentially risking disruption for passengers and future investment in the airline
The Irish Airline Pilots’ Association is seeking a 27% pay increase over three years, while Aer Lingus has offered 12.25%
The Labour Court recommended a 9.25% pay increase for pilots, which was accepted by the airline but rejected by pilots.The Labour Court said “there was a lack of realism and common sense” during talks.
The pay clash has already led to stalled investment in the airline, with two new aircraft earmarked for other carriers within the IAG group, impacting summer travel plans.
A written statement from Aer Lingus said: ““we are surprised that IALPA commenced this ballot before they met directly with the airline – a meeting with management was being arranged but had not yet taken place.Commencing of a ballot is disruptive to the airline’s customers and other employees. The Labour Court issued an interim recommendation which was accepted by Aer Lingus and outlined a clear path forward for continued engagement on the issue of pilot pay with a view to resolving it. IALPA have rejected the outcomes of multiple independent processes which have sought to resolve the issue. IALPA’s failure to engage in the various independent processes in a responsible manner, now risks investment, growth and jobs in the airline into the future. It also threatens unnecessary disruption to customers.”
Mark Tighe, president of IALPA said: “in April, the company reported €225m profit – an increase of 400pc on the previous year. In addition to this, pilots made huge sacrifices in their pay and working conditions during the pandemic in order to save the company. However, management failed to reverse many of these measures, which include lower pay scales for new entrants, while they report bumper profits. It is vital that all pilots in the airline received equal pay for equal work, new pilots in Aer Lingus earn up to 10pc less pay than pilots who were employed in Aer Lingus prior to the pandemic.”
