Aer Lingus 'being balloted on strike action'

Pilots at Aer Lingus are reportedly being balloted for strike action to lend their support to a hundred Aer Arann pilots due to strike next week.

Earlier this week, staff at the regional airline told the company they are taking industrial action next Tuesday and Wednesday and again on August 24 and 25 in a dispute over pay.

The pilots, who took a 10% pay cut in 2009, served Aer Arann strike notice last summer.

They eventually withdrew their threat after the company agreed to enter a pay review process and take part in an independent pay tribunal.

The Irish Airline Pilots’ Association (IALPA) said despite several days of tribunal hearings, members were still not satisfied with the company’s position on introducing pay rises, claiming it has continued to kick the can further down the road.

If Aer Lingus pilots voted to take action in solidarity with their colleagues, they would have to serve notice on the former flag carrier.

If approved, all flights may be shut down from next Tuesday, although the action could instead result in a partial suspension of services.