Dublin, Ireland – Aer Lingus has announced the cancellation of an additional 122 flights until July 7 due to ongoing industrial action by pilots. This decision comes as the airline grapples with a work-to-rule and strike actions by its pilots, leading to the cancellation of nearly 400 flights so far. The industrial action, characterized by pilots refusing to work overtime or handle out-of-hours duties, has disrupted the airline’s operations significantly.

The escalation of the dispute has led to mounting frustrations among passengers, with reports of stranded travelers, including a group of students and teachers from Shimna Integrated School in County Down, who had their flight home from Berlin canceled while at the airport. The lack of communication and support from Aer Lingus left the group feeling abandoned, forcing them to spend the night on the airport floor before finding alternative travel arrangements.

In response to the situation, Capt Mark Tighe, president of the Irish Air Line Pilots’ Association (IALPA), emphasized the importance of fair wages for pilots. The union has expressed willingness to negotiate with management to reach a resolution, even offering to accept less than an inflationary pay rise. However, tensions remain high as the possibility of further strike action looms, with conflicting reports on the recommended length of the strikes.

Despite the ongoing disruptions, Aer Lingus remains committed to minimizing the impact on passengers affected by flight cancellations. The airline has outlined various options for affected travelers, including rebooking, refund vouchers, or full refunds for canceled flights. As the situation unfolds, both the airline and union continue to engage in discussions to find a resolution that satisfies all parties involved.

Passengers are advised to stay updated on the latest developments and communicate directly with Aer Lingus for assistance with their travel plans. Amidst the uncertainties surrounding the labor dispute, the airline reassures passengers that efforts are being made to alleviate disruptions and provide support during this challenging time.