In November Aer Lingus announced that it is completing a full review of its Manchester base due to commercial concerns around lack of viability. This review could ultimately lead to the closure of the base and potential redundancies. 

A 45-day collective consultation period has now begun between the airline and the Irish Airline Pilots' Association (IALPA), a branch of Fórsa. 

Following a meeting between the parties last Wednesday 26 November, IALPA Manchester base representative First Officer John Rawluk said: “Our priority is first to review all options to protect the base, and then, should the decision be made to close the base, we will of course be seeking that all members are transferred to the Dublin operation seamlessly.” 

He explained that there are collective labour agreements in place which include mechanisms to ensure pilots are protected in the case of a base closure. 

“Nonetheless, this is a concerning time for members who have established their home and family lives in Manchester. We will continue to engage constructively with Aer Lingus to ensure the best outcome for our members,” John concluded.

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