Aer Lingus Disrupted by Ongoing Pilot Industrial Action
Pilot industrial action has disrupted the travel plans of thousands of holidaymakers, with Aer Lingus pilots and management unable to reach a resolution in their ongoing dispute over a 24% pay increase. The Labour Court admitted defeat in mediating between the parties, resulting in the start of indefinite work-to-rule actions at midnight, and a planned eight-hour strike on Saturday.
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The airline has already cancelled over 220 flights between today and Sunday, with an additional 50 flights cancelled for Monday and Tuesday next week. These disruptions affect key destinations including London, New York, Paris, and Rome, causing significant distress for travellers.
CEO and Passengers Voice Concerns Over Disruptive Impact of Pilot Industrial Action
Aer Lingus CEO Lynne Embleton expressed concern over the impact on holidaymakers and people travelling for important family events, including fans attending Taylor Swift concerts. Passengers at Dublin and Cork airports have shared their anxieties, fearing that their return flights might be jeopardised. Siobhan O’Leary, travelling to Malaga, highlighted the personal toll, worrying about her 90-year-old mother left alone at home.
Pilots demand a pay increase to match inflation since their last raise in 2019, while Aer Lingus offers up to 12.5% with conditions for improved productivity and flexibility. Taoiseach Simon Harris urged both sides to find a resolution through compromise and engagement, emphasising the need to end the ongoing chaos for travellers.
