Virgin pilots vote overwhelmingly for strike

Virgin Atlantic pilots, represented by the British Air Line Pilots Association (BALPA) union, voted (21-Jun-2011) overwhelmingly in favour of industrial action over pay. 97% voted for strike action in a ballot that saw a massive 94% turnout. In the hope that Sir Richard Branson will intervene and a offer a solution found BALPA has not yet set any strike dates. [more]

BALPA: "The size of the poll and the huge majority for action should send a clear message to Sir Richard Branson. I am happy to meet him anywhere and anytime to resolve this. My messages are simple: Pilots do not want to strike and are hugely disappointed by the company's approach. There has been no UK pilot strike for 32 years. But there comes a time when even moderate people say "enough". Pilots are being driven to strike. With no pay increase since 2008, a below inflation offer for 2011 and proposals for 2012 and 2013 that will be sub-inflation this is now a 6 year attack on living standards which has not happened in any other UK airline. Pilots at Virgin are saying "enough". Pilots are prepared to strike. We have absolute resolve to secure a fair settlement. When a group professional people say "enough" someone at the top should sit up and listen. We do not want to inconvenience the public and hope that Sir Richard will use some of his undoubted Virgin Flair to settle this. If damage is to be avoided and passengers not inconvenienced then Sir Richard needs to act now." Jim McAuslan, General Secretary. Source: BALPA, 21-Jun-2011.