Ryanair pilots threaten strike action five days before Christmas
Ryanair pilots are threatening to take strike action on December 20, as they fight for better working conditions and union recognition. Pilots based in Dublin are set to strike, as are pilots based in Germany, Italy and Portugal.
By 1110 BST, the Ryanair share price was 0.65% higher at €17.02.
Unions announce industrial action
Tuesday afternoon, the IALPA branch of the IMPACT Union wrote to Ryanair CEO Michael O’Leary.
“The IALPA branch of IMPACT have conducted a secret ballot of our pilot members directly employed by Ryanair,” wrote IMPACT’s national secretary, Angela Kirk. “The ballot was in favour of industrial action including strike action.”
The letter adds that the action is being taken in order to encourage Ryanair to recognise Unions. The strike will last for 24 hours from 0001 BST Wednesday December 20th.
That letter follows notice from VC, the German Pilots Association, that Ryanair can expect strike action from its German based pilots “at any time”.
“Ryanair can stop the German industrial action right now by declaring the willingness to negotiate proper terms and conditions of work and remuneration, a last chance is still being offered," said VC President Ilja Schulz.
"Otherwise, Ryanair will be fully responsible for future industrial actions," VC President Schulz, added in a press release.
Ryanair pilot problems continue
News that Ryanair pilots remain unhappy with their situation at the budget Irish airline, follows a tough few months for the firm. It cancelled a number of flights due to problems with pilot’s flying hours. In addition, pilots left the company citing unhappiness with pay and conditions.
Ryanair responded to the news with its own statement.
“Ryanair will deal with any such disruptions if, or when they arise, and we apologise sincerely to customers for any upset or worry this threatened action by less than 28% of our Dublin pilots may cause them over the coming days,” the budget airline’s statement on its website read.
“Ryanair is surprised that IALPA has threatened to disrupt Christmas week travel,” it added.
