Prospect of Shannon Airport flight cancellations deemed ‘very worrying’ by CEO

Shannon Airport CEO admits the prospect of the mid-west base being affected by the ongoing pilot pay dispute is “very worrying”.

The executive committee of the Irish Airline Pilots’ Association met later to discuss the employment tribunal’s proposals to end the dispute.

The recommended 17.5% pay increase has already been accepted by the airline.

The non-binding recommendation covers a four-year period from 1 January 2023 to the end of December 2026.

It also recommended a 10% increase in overnight allowances and a further 5% from October next year.

The pilots were demanding a 24 percent pay increase, which they said was due to inflation.

Aer Lingus said it was seeking additional productivity and flexibility for any pay increase above 12.25%.

IALPA president Captain Mark Tighe said the union’s executive committee would consider the industrial tribunal’s decision before making a recommendation to members on whether to accept or reject the proposals.

The pilots’ strike has so far led to the cancellation of 548 flights through Sunday, July 14.

The ongoing work-to-rule movement has led to the cancellation of 548 flights so far, affecting more than 80,000 holidaymakers.

Shannon Airport Group CEO Mary Considine, however, fears that Aer Lingus’ Shannon routes could face difficulties if the dispute is not resolved quickly.