By Fiona Nanna, ForeMedia News

4 minutes read. Updated 9:00PM GMT Thurs, 27, 2024

Negotiations between Aer Lingus and the Irish Air Line Pilots’ Association (IALPA) aimed at resolving a contentious pay dispute have reached an impasse. This development comes after pilots commenced an indefinite work-to-rule campaign, refraining from overtime and other out-of-hours duties.

Aer Lingus extended an invitation to IALPA for discussions on Wednesday in a bid to avert further disruption. However, on Thursday afternoon, IALPA President Capt Mark Tighe confirmed the breakdown of talks, revealing that the union had moderated its demand from a nearly 24% pay hike. Despite this concession, Aer Lingus remains firm that any increase above 12.25% must be offset by the pilots through adjustments in work practices.

Donal Moriarty, Chief Corporate Affairs Officer of Aer Lingus, emphasized that the airline had engaged constructively in negotiations. “We endeavored to address issues that could resolve this dispute, particularly productivity, flexibility, and modernizing our collective agreement,” said Moriarty. However, he noted that IALPA lacked the mandate to discuss these critical aspects, urging the union to reconsider their stance.

Upcoming Strike and Potential Escalation

An eight-hour strike is slated for Saturday from 05:00 to 13:00 local time. Capt Tighe warned that further escalation of industrial action “can’t be ruled out,” stressing the union’s willingness to continue negotiations. He highlighted the significant impact of inflation on pilots’ pay since their last increase in 2019, justifying the 24% rise as a cumulative adjustment.

The ongoing industrial action has already led to the cancellation of 270 flights. Aer Lingus assured that all UK regional flights operated by Emerald Airlines and transatlantic flights to and from Manchester would proceed as scheduled.

Impact on Passengers and the Economy

Aer Lingus expressed its commitment to minimizing disruption for passengers, stating that it remains open to discussions within the framework of state industrial relations. The airline has urged IALPA to consider the broader repercussions of the industrial action on passengers, the company, and the Irish economy.

Passengers affected by cancellations between 26 June and 2 July have several options. Those who booked directly with Aer Lingus can change flights online, request a full refund, or opt for a refund voucher valid for five years. Customers who booked through travel agents or third parties must contact those entities directly.

Aer Lingus Pilot Salaries

Irish broadcaster RTÉ reports that co-pilots at Aer Lingus start at approximately €36,000 (£30,400), with salaries increasing based on flying hours. Captains at the top of the scale can earn up to €287,000 (£242,000), though reaching this level can take up to 26 years. Salaries also vary depending on whether pilots operate short-haul or long-haul flights.

As Aer Lingus and IALPA remain at an impasse, the airline continues efforts to mitigate the fallout from industrial actions. For a full list of cancelled flights up to and including 2 July, visit the Aer Lingus website. Passengers are advised to stay updated via email or SMS notifications from the airline.

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