Aer Lingus pilots are entering talks about possible strikes with management with a “loaded gun”, according to one travel expert. 

Members of the Irish Airline Pilots' Association (IALPA) must vote once again on industrial action after Aer Lingus questioned the validity of an e-vote overwhelmingly in favour of action. 

In a letter to members, IALPA says it will be conducting a paper ballot for members between Friday and Monday. 

It will ask if members wish to vote in favour of industrial action up to and including an all-out strike in a row over pay. 

Despite the setback from the airline, pilots seeking industrial action for increased pay are expected to make “a lot of noise” in the coming weeks. 

Air and Travel Editor Eoghan Corry said there is a “race” by IALPA to formalise strike action as soon as possible. 

“It means they go into talks with this loaded gun, and it gives them more pressure,” he told The Anton Savage Show. 

“They're pressing Aer Lingus on every front – things like the amount of strike notice that must be served.” 

Aer Lingus strike

IALPA members hope to serve a strike notice to the airline within seven days of it beginning, for example. 

Giving notice within seven days means Aer Lingus will have exceeded the 15-day minimum to cancel a flight for customers without needing to pay compensation. 

Mr Corry said this gives IALPA an extra layer of pressure on the airline. 

“Not only does [strike threats] cost the union in forward bookings – people going to book [a flight are] now booking alternative airlines,” he said. 

“Not serving 15 days’ notice, Aer Lingus will have to compensate the passengers – not IALPA but Aer Lingus are fitted with the bill.” 

A taxi queue at Dublin Airport, 10-9-11. Image: Radharc Images / Alamy

He said pilots hoping to strike are pressing Aer Lingus “on all fronts” and a deal will likely be struck. 

“It will be done as late in the day as possible,” he said. “Possibly when the most financial damage has been done.” 

Other airlines such as Ryanair will likely see a boost in sales from potential Aer Lingus strikes, according to Mr Corry, along with aircraft leasing companies. 

Aer Lingus pilots are demanding wage increases after rejecting a Labour Court proposal of a 9.25% pay increase over two years.  

IALPA represents 800 pilots and it is demanding a 24% pay increase for staff.  

For senior staff, this could mean roughly a €50,000 pay increase