Ryanair has announced that Spanish pilots union SEPLA has accepted a four year agreement for Spanish pilots to minimise Spanish pilot job losses.
The agreement, which was accepted by over 80% of Ryanair's Spanish pilots, includes a 20% pay reduction restored over four years, productivity improvements on rosters, flexible working patterns and annual leave.
Ryanair said that the agreement gives it a framework to flex its operation during the COVID-19 crisis and a pathway to recovery when the business returns to normal in the years ahead.
The airline also said that it regrets that it as not been to reach an agreement with cabin crew unions USO and SITCPLA in Spain.
CEO Statement
Ryanair CEO Eddie Wilson stated, "We welcome [the] result that an overwhelming majority (80%) of SEPLA members voted in favour of a four year agreement on 20% pay cuts and productivity improvements on rosters and flexible working patterns to save the maximum number of Spanish pilot jobs.
"The strength of this vote demonstrates the commitment from our Spanish pilots to work with Ryanair as we work our way through this COVID-19 crisis over the next few years. It's regrettable that USO and SITCPLA obstructed a similar agreement for our cabin crew, which now puts Spanish cabin crew jobs at risk. We have been able to conclude agreements with unions throughout Europe, including SEPLA, but both USO and SITPLA have to date been incapable of engaging in any realistic way that takes account of the extraordinary challenges facing the airline industry."
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