Aer Lingus Manchester Cabin Crew Strike Threatens Travel Disruption
Strike Action Announced
Aer Lingus cabin crew at Manchester Airport voted to strike over pay disputes from October 30 to November 2, 2025. The strike could disrupt up to 18 flights, affecting around 4,000 passengers traveling to the US and Caribbean.
Union Unite confirmed 130 crew members voted, with 90% supporting industrial action due to pay disparities and low salaries.
Reasons Behind the Strike
The dispute centers on base salary differences between Manchester and Dublin-based cabin crew members. Aer Lingus offered a 12% pay increase over two years, including a $15 US overnight allowance rise.
The union claims these increases remain insufficient for employees to cover essential living expenses and housing costs. Manchester-based crew earn less than their Dublin colleagues, fuelling dissatisfaction and prompting calls for fairer compensation.
Aer Lingus Response
Aer Lingus expressed disappointment but insisted it negotiated in good faith and offered competitive pay packages. The airline plans to minimise passenger disruption by offering alternative flights and re-accommodating affected travellers.
Non-striking crew may operate short-haul flights, connecting passengers through Dublin to transatlantic destinations.
Impact on Passengers
The strike will likely affect flights from Manchester to New York, Boston, Orlando, and Barbados. Passengers should expect cancellations, longer travel times, and potential delays during the four-day strike period.
Aer Lingus advises travellers to monitor its website, app, and emails for real-time flight updates.
Union Stance
Unite argues the proposed pay increase fails to address low base salaries and unequal allowances. The union emphasises the strike highlights broader issues of pay inequality within Aer Lingus.
Crew members seek fair compensation that aligns with their Dublin-based counterparts’ allowances and benefits.
Passenger Guidance
Check your flight status regularly using Aer Lingus online tools or mobile app. Prepare for potential delays and review alternative routes offered by the airline.
Understand passenger rights, including compensation or assistance for cancellations or extended delays.
Potential Long-Term Effects
A prolonged dispute may harm Aer Lingus’s reputation and affect reliability on transatlantic flights. Successful strike outcomes could improve crew pay and set precedents for future negotiations.
Passengers should plan accordingly and remain flexible amid ongoing industrial action developments.