Pilots for Aer Lingus Could Strike Later This Month

Another major airline strike could be on the horizon. 

As American Airline flight attendants ready for possible strike action this month, the group that represents pilots at Aer Lingus is also targeting possible industry action.

Members of the Irish Airline Pilots’ Association (IALPA) have opened balloting for a possible strike later this month as the group continues to bargain with Aer Lingus over pilot pay.

IALPA members voted earlier in the week to reject a recommendation from Ireland’s Labour Court that could have resolved the dispute.

Pilots are reportedly seeking a 23.8% pay increase as part of their new contract, while the court recommended 9.25%.

The balloting will close on June 12, after which the group could take industrial action, which includes striking.

In a statement, Aer Lingus said it was “surprised” that IALPA was opening the ballot before the group had met directly with the airline and that the move “is disruptive to the airline’s customers and other employees.”

It also said that it was unable to secure a new contract with Airbus for new planes last week because of the ongoing dispute with IALPA.