Virgin pilots vote overwhelmingly for strike
21-Jun-2011 For the first time in their history pilots in Virgin Atlantic have voted overwhelmingly in favour of industrial action over pay. 97% voted for strike action in a ballot that saw a massive 94% turnout.
'The size of the poll and the huge majority for action should send a clear message to Sir Richard Branson' said BALPA General Secretary, Jim McAuslan. 'I am happy to meet him anywhere and anytime to resolve this. My messages are simple:
'Pilots do not want to strike and are hugely disappointed by the company's approach. There has been no UK pilot strike for 32 years. But there comes a time when even moderate people say "enough".
'Pilots are being driven to strike. With no pay increase since 2008, a below inflation offer for 2011 and proposals for 2012 and 2013 that will be sub-inflation this is now a 6 year attack on living standards which has not happened in any other UK airline. Pilots at Virgin are saying "enough".
'Pilots are prepared to strike. We have absolute resolve to secure a fair settlement. When a group professional people say "enough" someone at the top should sit up and listen. We do not want to inconvenience the public and hope that Sir Richard will use some of his undoubted Virgin Flair to settle this.'
In the hope that he will intervene and a solution found BALPA has not yet set any strike dates.
'Having been at this since last November, time is running out' said Jim McAuslan. 'If damage is to be avoided and passengers not inconvenienced then Sir Richard needs to act now.'