Aer Lingus Cabin Crew Escalate Pay Dispute at Manchester Airport
Additional strike dates announced as union calls for fairer salaries and improved working conditions.
Strike Action Expands, Aer Lingus cabin crew at Manchester Airport are escalating their pay dispute with the airline. Unite, the workers’ union, announced additional strike dates for the 130 affected employees.
The crew will now stage walkouts from 9 to 11 November, 14 November, and 16 to 18 November. These dates come in addition to the initial strike planned from 30 October to 2 November. The extended action reflects growing frustration over unresolved pay issues and working conditions.
Pay Offer Rejected
Cabin crew members have rejected Aer Lingus’s latest pay proposal as insufficient to meet their needs. Unite acknowledged the offer was significant but said Manchester salaries remain exceedingly low. The union highlighted a substantial pay gap compared with colleagues based in Dublin, reaching several thousand pounds.
Crew members insist that fair compensation is critical to reflect the work and responsibility they carry daily. Unite stressed that Aer Lingus has consistently prioritised profits over adequately rewarding its staff.
Allegations of Strike Busting
Unite has accused the airline of engaging in strike-busting tactics ahead of industrial action. The airline reportedly made changes to crew rosters and plans to lease staff from other operators. These moves, the union claims, aim to undermine legitimate strike action and weaken collective bargaining.
Cabin crew warned that any disruptions during the strike are a direct result of the airline’s approach. Unite continues to demand negotiations that fairly address pay disparities and working conditions for Manchester staff.
Impact and Next Steps
The upcoming strikes are expected to disrupt Aer Lingus flights at Manchester Airport significantly. Passengers are advised to check schedules and prepare for potential delays or cancellations during walkouts.
Unite remains committed to defending members’ rights while encouraging Aer Lingus to return to the negotiating table. The union emphasises that a fair pay agreement is essential to restore stability and morale among crew. Resolution of the dispute depends on the airline addressing long-standing pay inequities and valuing its workforce.