Aer Lingus Pilots' Strike Prompts Flight Cancellations

Money | June 19, 2024, 6:23 p.m.

A potential indefinite work-to-rule by Aer Lingus pilots has been announced, sparking fears of flight cancellations starting on June 26. The Irish Airline Pilots Association (IALPA) has voted overwhelmingly in favor of the action, with 99% support, in response to an ongoing pay dispute. Aer Lingus warns that the impact of this industrial action will be significant, with increasing levels of cancellations over time. The airline's chief corporate affairs officer emphasized that the planned disruption is intended to have a maximum negative impact on customers, particularly by preventing changes to rosters. Aer Lingus is urging IALPA members to engage in talks through the Workplace Relations Commission (WRC), a step they have so far refused to take. The situation highlights the potential for travel chaos and the importance of resolving the dispute through dialogue.