19/09/2007

New Proposals By Aer Lingus To End Pilots' Row

Aer Lingus has issued a new proposal to pilots in an attempt to bring the row over the company's planned Belfast base to an end.

It is understood that accommodations will be made for pilots wanting to be based at the new hub in Belfast and an amended pension plan.

Aer Lingus management has reportedly offered to let pilots move to Belfast permanently or for a period of up to five years without having to resign.

Pilots who move on secondment for three to five years will be allowed to retain membership of their defined-benefit scheme.

However, the airline's management remains adamant that those pilots in Belfast will still have to work at local pay rates.

It is now expected pilots will issue counter proposals following this latest bid.

The new base in Belfast is expected to begin operating on December 10.

(LC/SP)

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