Aer Lingus pilots union resolves pay dispute

In a significant development at Irish airline Aer Lingus, the Irish Air Line Pilots’ Association (IALPA) has decided to end their work-to-rule protest as pilots consider a proposed pay deal. The offer, which includes a 17.75% wage increase for pilots over more than three years, will be put to a vote between 18 and 23 July. Captain Mark Tighe, president of the union, hailed the outcome as a "significant win" achieved through the determination and unity of members. However, Tighe noted that the proposed increase falls slightly short of the inflation adjustment pilots were seeking, but it still represents a substantial improvement in their pay. The acceptance of the offer by IALPA has been welcomed by Aer Lingus and Ireland’s Taoiseach Simon Harris, who described it as a positive development for the traveling public and the tourism sector. The recommendation to accept the Labour Court proposed settlement comes after weeks of disruption caused by IALPA's industrial action, including strikes and an overtime ban, resulting in the cancellation of hundreds of flights and affecting around 100,000 passengers. The proposed pay increase, just below 18% over four years, is seen as a compromise between the airline's offer and the union's demand. The bitter pay dispute between Aer Lingus and its pilots has taken a toll on the airline's profits and reputation, with significant financial losses due to forfeited revenue and disruption costs during what would typically be a peak season. The ongoing industrial action has also led to a loss of forward bookings, with passengers turning to other airlines. As the situation unfolds, Aer Lingus may need to introduce discounted offers to fill empty seats, especially with transatlantic traffic showing signs of weakness. IALPA's decision to recommend acceptance of the proposed settlement marks a potential turning point in the dispute, with the union moving to suspend work-to-rule actions pending the outcome of the upcoming vote. The resolution of this conflict is eagerly awaited by both the airline and passengers, as they hope for a swift return to normal operations and a resolution to the challenges that have plagued Aer Lingus in recent weeks.