Aer Lingus flight sales fall ahead of pilots' industrial action

Rather than a strike at Aer Lingus, pilots' union Ialpa has opted for a work-to-rule, where pilots will adhere strictly to workplace rules and refuse overtime work, which could result in flights being grounded. Picture: Brian Lawless/PA

Aer Lingus bookings with travel agents have dropped by almost a third in 24 hours since pilots upped the ante in their industrial dispute with airline management.

The airline said the action by pilots — a work-to-rule, starting on June 26 — will inevitably result in disruption for holidaymakers in the coming weeks and months.