Virgin Blue licensed engineers vote in favour of strike and other work bans

Virgin Blue licensed engineers have voted in favour of a strike of up to two days and other work bans, after union, the Australian Licensed Aircraft Engineers Association, and Virgin Blue failed to reach an agreement on a number of issues, including the use of baggage handlers in roles previously filled by engineers (The Age, 08-Apr-2010). The action is to include bans on overtime and higher duties and stop work meetings. The union stated the industrial action may be launched next week and it is likely the action will result in grounding of aircraft. Virgin Blue and the union plan to hold another meeting today to resolve the issues, with ALAEA stated the carrier has so far only offered "lip-service" in its negotiations. Engineers have also requested a 4% p/a pay rise. Virgin has offered 3%.