Aer Lingus Pilots Approve Significant Pay Deal Amidst Disruptions
- Pilots from Aer Lingus have voted overwhelmingly to accept a proposed pay increase of 17.75%.
- This decision comes after negotiations between the airline's management and the Irish Air Line Pilots' Association.
- The pay deal is intended to improve pilot morale and retention within the airline.
The Irish Airline Pilots' Association (IALPA) has announced that its executive recommended acceptance of a new pay deal proposed by the Irish Labour Court, which includes a substantial 17.75% pay rise for pilots over the next four years. In a decisive vote, 85% of IALPA members supported the agreement, with a remarkable turnout of 96%. IALPA President Capt Mark Tighe expressed satisfaction with the outcome, stating that the deal would result in a 19.2% increase in earnings for pilots, while those at the lower end of the pay scale and new joiners would see a 30% boost. The Fórsa trade union, associated with IALPA, hailed the agreement as a "huge win" for the pilots following a prolonged dispute over pay that led to significant disruptions in air travel. The industrial action, which included an eight-hour strike on June 29, resulted in the cancellation of 610 flights, affecting thousands of travelers. Capt Tighe noted that the resolution of such disputes can often take years, highlighting the challenges faced by pilots in negotiating fair compensation. For travelers impacted by the flight cancellations, Aer Lingus has communicated options for refunds or vouchers. Passengers whose flights were canceled may be eligible for a full refund to their original payment method or a voucher valid for five years, providing some relief amid the disruptions caused by the pilots' industrial action.