The Irish Airline Pilots Association (IALPA), a branch of Fórsa trade union, has secured a negotiated outcome for members following Aer Lingus’ closure of its Manchester base on Tuesday 31st March. 

After an intensive period of engagement, IALPA and Aer Lingus agreed on three options for affected pilots. These are: relocation to the Aer Lingus Dublin base, voluntary severance, or voluntary unpaid leave. 

Speaking about the closure, IALPA vice president Captain Daniel Langan described the recent period as “very difficult” for members, saying the decision to close the base was unexpected, particularly given the strong financial performance reported by Aer Lingus and the wider International Consolidated Airlines Group (IAG).  

He continued "Aer Lingus had pointed to robust revenues and improved operating margins in Aer Lingus U.K., making this decision difficult for our members to reconcile with the performance of the business and the potential to grow the base further considering the relatively large catchment area.” 

Explaining the impact on members, Captain Langan said: "Many pilots relocated to Manchester at the company’s request. They are now being asked to relocate again, with clear disruption to their professional and personal lives. 

"Our focus throughout has been on protecting members. Through sustained engagement, we have secured options that provide choice and a level of certainty at a difficult time.” 

A total of 24 pilots have relocated to Dublin, with the remainder opting for voluntary severance or unpaid leave. 

The Manchester base operated two long-haul aircraft serving Barbados, New York and Orlando. These aircraft will now return to Dublin. 

Captain Langan concluded: “While we engaged constructively to reach this outcome, we remain disappointed that a well-performing base has been closed. This decision has impacted our members and their families.” 

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