Belgium-based Ryanair pilots threaten to strike on 15-16 July, Ryanair reacts

Belgian-based pilots of Ryanair have issued a threat to strike on July 15 and 16. The Belgian Cockpit Association (Beca) and the Christian unions CNE and ACV have set a deadline for the company to present an acceptable proposal regarding pilots’ salaries.

The main issue is the restoration of a 20% salary reduction implemented during the pandemic. Despite the company’s significant profits, Ryanair’s management refuses to negotiate the restoration of pre-pandemic purchasing power. Ryanair also demands that pilots drop legal actions against the company as a precondition for collective bargaining.

The company plans to terminate a collective labour agreement (CLA) related to working hours and rest periods. If a serious proposal is not presented by Friday, the pilots reserve the right to continue their actions until October 2024. The unions express apologies to passengers who may be affected by the disruptions.

Ryanair reaction

In response to our article, a Ryanair spokesperson sent the following statement:

“Ryanair has comprehensive collective agreements in place covering all its pilots across Europe, and we have been able to renew collective agreements with all pilot unions throughout Europe.

Threats of strikes are not only bad for pilots, who lose pay, but also customers and ultimately investment in Belgium.

Ryanair is available to engage in constructive negotiations with the Belgian pilot unions to reach an agreement as we have done successfully in all other countries in which Ryanair operates.”