Aer Lingus pilots have voted to strike.

They're seeking wage hikes of over 20% after rejecting a pay rise of 9%, brokered at the Labour Court.

The Irish Airline Pilots' Association (IALPA) says 97.7% percent of the ballots returned were in favour of industrial action, up to and including strike.

'Unnecessary and regrettable'

In a statement, Aer Lingus said a strike would be unnecessary and regrettable.

“Aer Lingus notes the outcome of IALPA’s ballot supporting industrial action,” they said.

“Any decision by IALPA to now serve notice of industrial action would be entirely unnecessary and regrettable and would result in significant disruption to the airline’s customers and to other employees.

“Notwithstanding the ballot outcome, at this time direct discussions with IALPA are ongoing.

“Aer Lingus is also willing to request the support of the Workplace Relations Commission in order to further explore solutions.”

If a strike does go ahead, it could cause chaos for passengers this Summer, with flights likely to be grounded within weeks.

Main image: Aer Lingus planes at Dublin Airport, 3-1-24. Image: Leah Farrell/© RollingNews.ie