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Aer Lingus Pilots Vote Overwhelmingly In Favour Of Industrial Action A Second Time

Tom Douglas
Tom Douglas

12:23 17 Jun 2024


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Pilots in Aer Lingus have once again voted overwhelmingly for strike action in a dispute over pay.

Members of the IALPA union voted 99% in favour in a second ballot.

The union says the result is an incredible re-affirmation of the mandate for industrial action.

A second paper ballot was held after the airline expressed concerns over the first one, which was conducted electronically last week.

IALPA says that has only served to further antagonise pilots in this pay dispute.

It also says its rule book allows for electronic ballots and claims the concerns Aer Lingus raised were unfounded.

The union is holding out for an increase in the region of 24 percent, having rejected Labour Court recommendations of over 9 percent.

Its not clear yet what kind of industrial action may come of this, but the union says its engaging with colleagues to determine the next steps.

Stand Up

Earlier today, Ryanair CEO Michael O'Leary believes IALPA should have accepted the recommendations:

"I would hope there'd be a settlement.

I'd strongly urge Aer Lingus to stand up to these pilots.

I'd strongly urge the pilots union, if you're getting €250,000 a year and the Labour Court has awarded you 9.5% - take it."

Ryanair

Knock On Impact

The question of what impact any strike action would have on Aer Lingus continues to present itself.

Travel journalist Eoghan Corry says they've asked for 15 days notice in the event of strike action - but that they're unlikely to get it.

"Aer Lingus will not only have to take the hit on the forward bookings, they'll also have to take the hit on getting the passengers from A to B.

They'll also have to pay compensation under EU 261 for the strike."

More information on the EU Regulation 261 is available here.

The result of the ballot is expected this afternoon.


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