‘Last call’ for airline talks

Workers for two of Britain’s holiday airlines are facing uncertain times as one is bought out by new management and members of the other are balloted for strike action over pay.

Unite is making protecting workers pay, terms and conditions an absolute priority as Monarch is taken over by Greybull Capital LLP.

“It has been a difficult time for Monarch and we hope this takeover opens a new chapter for the company,” said Oliver Richardson, Unite national official for civil air transport.

“We are pleased that the company is going to be saved, but obviously our key priority is the welfare and job security of our members,” Oliver added.

Meanwhile Thomson Airways’ management is being urged to ‘get round the table and negotiate’ on cabin crews’ pay or face disrupted flights over Christmas.

“This is an extremely profitable company that rewards other sections of its workforce very generously and our members in the crewing department see this day in, day out,” said Kevin Hall, Unite regional officer.

The dispute involves cabin crew and pilot roster crew controllers, who arrange cover for sick colleagues and any unforeseen circumstances.

“We do not believe it is unreasonable to start to bring our members pay back in line with inflation,” added Kevin. “Our members earn relatively modest salaries and the skill and dedication they bring to their jobs ensures the smooth running of the airline.”

Unite say’s the company rewards the other sections of its workforce well, but the crew controllers have not benefited and their pay has been seriously eroded in relation to the rate of inflation since 2010.

The ballot will open on Wednesday November 19 and close on Wednesday December 10.

Unite is seeking commitments from the new management at Greybull Capital LLP regarding future business plans and how they impact on the workforce.