14-Feb-2011 9:57 AM
Qantas strike threat grows as talks collapse
Australian and International Pilots Association (AIPA), which represents Qantas pilots, announced it has moved closer to a strike after the collapse of talks (AAP, 11-Feb-2011). Qantas CEO Alan Joyce has advised union members that pilots remain "vital" to the successful operation of the airline and stated that in the event of strike action, "the job security of many thousands of Qantas group employees will be put at risk", stating that it not only harms the Qantas brand, but its entire business. AIPA is seeking guaranteed employment of its pilot members as well as an annual 2.5% pay increase. A ballot of AIPA members, which may be conducted in the next fortnight, would need to be undertaken before any strike action.