08/04/2008

Pilots Wages To Take Off

Aer Lingus pilots could reportedly receive an average of €14,000 each if they agree to more flexible work practices.

The result of a ballot is due on Tuesday afternoon on the airline's changes as part of its contentious €20m cost-cutting plan.

Reports this morning say pilots are being offered a total compensation package of €7m if they agree to work an extra 50 hours per year before the overtime threshold is reached.

However, In return, they will lose certain premium payments for 50 flying hours a year, and will have to give up some allowances.

Pilots flying more than 520 hours a year are currently entitled to a premium payment known as performance pay. However Aer Lingus sought to raise that threshold to 720 hours a year although this was negotiated down to 570 hours.

They are also being asked to accept reduced levels of compensation for working outside their agreed contract.

The next pay review for pilots will take place in 2011, and their union the IALPA has recently won the right to represent pilots in Belfast.

Aer Lingus management are also in talks with 1,800 SIPTU staff who last week rejected a compromise cost cutting negotiated by their representatives six weeks ago.

(DW/JM)


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