Hearing due next week in Ryanair union case

Ryanair has a fleet of more than 450 Boeing 737-800 jets, and is the largest operator in Europe of the aircraft type. Photo: Niall Carson/PA

Tim Healy

Ryanair's application to fast-track its legal action over losses it allegedly suffered as a result of a planned strike last summer - which was halted by an injunction - has been adjourned.

The airline is suing some of its Irish-based pilots and their trade union, Fórsa.

Ryanair claims it suffered estimated losses of €13.7m in lost bookings and effects on fares arising from the planned industrial action.

It also claims it suffered additional damage due to negative publicity, and damage to its business and brand. The claims are denied.

Last month, an application by the airline to have its case admitted to the fast-track commercial division of the High Court was adjourned because of a separate application in another court for a stay on the action while mediation proceeded.

The case returned yesterday before Mr Justice David Barniville, who set aside an afternoon next week to hear the application to admit the case to the Commercial Court.