Members of IALPA, the professional body for Irish airline pilots, and a branch of Fórsa trade union, backed the terms of the recommendation by a margin of 85pc on a 96pc turnout. It includes a 17.75pc pay rise.
The Labour Court proposal also suggested structural changes to pay scales, the ending of a crewing agreement allowing pilots to take more leave in summer and the termination of a debt owed by pilots to the company.
In a brief statement, the airline said: “Aer Lingus welcomes the outcome of the ballot which has accepted the Labour Court recommendation.”
Today’s News in 90 seconds – 23rd July 2024
The ballot closed at 9am this morning following a series of engagements with pilot members.
There was a period of industrial action by pilots in the past month which saw more than 500 flights cancelled.
Work-to-rule industrial action by pilots was suspended on July 10 following the decision of the IALPA executive to recommend a vote in favour of the recommendation by the Labour Court.
Ialpa president Mark Tighe welcomed the deal.
“This is the greatest pay award seen in 30 years for Aer Lingus pilots,” he said.
“Throughout negotiations, management were seeking work practice changes to fund our pay award.
“However, no work practice changes were conceded in this pay dispute, nor will they be in the future.
“Companies making significant profits must ensure that their employees’ remuneration reflects the success of the company, and their salaries are protected from inflation.”
He added: “It is disappointing that Aer Lingus did not conclude an agreement with Ialpa during the 22 months preceding the Labour Court recommendation.
“Ialpa believes that the industrial action which affected our passengers was wholly avoidable.”
Clare Dunne, CEO of the Irish Travel Agents Association, said: “It is a good day for the travelling public and we are delighted with the decision by IALPA pilots to accept this pay deal. This is a very positive development for intending travellers and the tourism sector.
“The ITAA have consistently stated that compromise and engagement between IAPLA and Aer Lingus was the way only forward and best for every stakeholder involved, most importantly the customer.”
Industrial action by pilots had resulted in the cancellation of 610 flights in in total.
A work to rule started on June 26 and went on for a fortnight. IALPA members also took part in an eight-hour strike on June 29.
IALPA represents over 800 pilots at Aer Lingus. The deal will see a significant debt write-off for the pilots. There is currently a €17m debt averaging up to €25,000 a pilot, owed to the airline according to court documents.
