Aer Lingus flights operating from Manchester Airport are expected to face disruption later this month after cabin crew voted to strike in an ongoing dispute over pay and working conditions.
The planned walkout, involving around 130 crew members represented by the Unite union, will take place from 30 October to 2 November.
Background to the Dispute
Unite union members have rejected Aer Lingus’ latest pay offer, which proposed a 9% rise this year and 3% next year. The union argues that, despite the percentage increase, crew salaries remain too low to cover essential living costs and that Manchester-based employees receive lower flying allowances than their colleagues in Dublin.
Unite also highlighted that crew are struggling with housing and household bills, and that Aer Lingus’ proposed uplift in allowances does not go far enough to address the imbalance.
Union Position
Unite Regional Officer John O’Neill said the decision to strike came after members felt they had exhausted all other options. The union claims that Manchester-based crew have “far lower flying allowances” and that workers “have overwhelmingly voted for strike action as they feel they have had no choice”.
The union has also warned that passengers may face delays and potential flight changes due to the disruption.
Aer Lingus Response
Aer Lingus has expressed disappointment at the outcome of the ballot. The airline stated that it has negotiated in good faith and believes its offers were “comprehensive and market competitive”. It has criticised the strike action as “very disruptive” for customers planning to travel on transatlantic services to New York, Orlando and Barbados from Manchester.
The airline has confirmed that it will prioritise communication with affected passengers and attempt to re-accommodate travellers where possible, including via connections through Dublin.
Impact on Travellers
Passengers flying with Aer Lingus from 30 October to 2 November may face:
- Schedule changes
- Possible delays
- Re-routed journeys via Dublin
- Limited on-board service depending on staffing levels
The airline has said it will contact affected customers directly, so travellers are advised to monitor their email and booking details closely.
Advice for Affected Passengers
If you are due to travel on the affected dates:
- Keep an eye on your booking for schedule updates
- Check your email regularly for notifications from Aer Lingus
- Allow extra time at the airport in case of delays
- Consider alternative routing if your schedule is time-sensitive
Under UK and EU261 regulations, passengers whose flights are cancelled are entitled to a refund or re-routing at the earliest opportunity. Compensation may depend on the circumstances and whether the airline can argue “extraordinary circumstances”.
While the dispute continues between Aer Lingus and Unite, passengers flying out of Manchester should be prepared for potential disruption. Both sides have indicated a willingness to negotiate, but no resolution has yet been announced.
For now, the best advice is to stay informed and be prepared for changes to travel plans.
