Talks between Aer Lingus management and pilots regarding a pay dispute have ended without agreement, with the airline accusing the Irish Airline Pilots’ Association (IALPA) of demanding an unsustainable increase in pay.
Pilots at Aer Lingus who are members of IALPA are currently balloting for industrial action, with the results expected to be announced soon.
Last week, IALPA members rejected a Labour Court recommendation proposing a 9.25pc pay increase, which was below the 23.8pc sought by the pilots.
Aer Lingus offered to involve the Workplace Relations Commission to explore solutions, but this was rejected by IALPA, leading to the breakdown in discussions. Aer Lingus has warned of the potential disruption that industrial action could cause to customers and employees.
Aer Lingus may use wet-lease aircraft to maintain some key routes during strike but capacity is limited in peak summer season.
The majority of 40,000 daily Aer Lingus passengers would be affected by potential pilot strike due to pay dispute.
Almost 800 pilots are expected to vote in favour of strike action, impacting holiday and travel plans.
