Pilot settles case against Ryanair

Ryanair pilot John Goss has reached a settlement in his High Court action against the budget airline, it emerged today.

Mr Goss brought the court action to challenge disciplinary procedures against him, which were instigated by Ryanair over claims he made intimidating calls to fellow pilots in Stansted.

Mr Goss had said he was being punished for trying to involve the Irish Airline Pilots Association (IALPA) in negotiations between the company and pilots, a claim denied by Ryanair.

Ryanair would not comment on the details of the settlement but it is understood the company was pleased the matter had been resolved.

Sources said the airline would not be paying costs under the terms of settlement but would be making a contribution towards legal fees of up to 50%.

Under the terms of the settlement Captain Goss withdrew his claims against the company, including claims of intimidation.

The pilot has agreed to undergo conversion training for the new 737-800 planes under the terms of the original offer made last November.

Mr Goss will be guaranteed a Dublin-based job flying the planes and Ryanair will pay for the €15,000 training, subject to a five year bond, sources said.

He will undergo the retraining shortly.

Today David O’Brien, director of flight and ground operations for the airline, said he was delighted with what he described as “an excellent settlement”.