Pilots back Ae Lingus change proposals by significant majority
05-Mar-2010 Aer Lingus pilots have voted to back a package of cost saving measures negotiated by the IALPA (Irish Air Line Pilots Association) branch of IMPACT trade union with the airline’s management.
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The measures were approved by 81% in favour to 19% against. The result of the pilots' ballot was announced early this afternoon (Friday, 5 March) by IALPA's president, Captain Evan Cullen.
Captain Cullen explained that the package of cost saving measures was negotiated by the pilots' branch during a very difficult process that lasted some four and a half months.
The measures include:
* 15% reduction in the number of pilots at the Aer Lingus
* 10% pay cut
* Freeze on pay increments for three years
* Increases in productivity
* Reduction in benefits from the pension scheme and increased pilot contributions to the scheme.
Captain Cullen added, "By voting in favour of this package of cost saving measures pilots have once again demonstrated their massive commitment to Aer Lingus. We have already invested large amounts of our own money in buying shares in the airline and have incurred considerable losses to date. The cost savings we have agreed with management - along with those we have given over recent years - represent another investment by our members and they are doing so on the basis that Aer Lingus management's strategy will provide the airline with a strong and vibrant future and the company's staff with a healthy return on this investment".