The recent strike notice filed by Belgian pilots as part of a union common front may be the first sign of a broader, coordinated effort across Europe. Didier Lebbe, permanent secretary of CNE Aviation, has highlighted the establishment of a large-scale European union movement targeting Ryanair.
A Strategy of European Solidarity
The movement is built on a straightforward principle of mutual support. According to Didier Lebbe, the unions have decided that if one country initiates a strike, others could follow in solidarity.
This approach to “European strikes” is intended to apply to every country where Ryanair operates aircraft and where unions are present.
Current Status and the 2027 Deadline
Despite the tension, there is currently no immediate risk of a strike. Lebbe indicates that the movement is “playing for time,” focusing on meetings and reflection, while efforts are being made to appease the situation.
Reports suggest that unions in Italy may be close to reaching an agreement. Yet, the primary window of risk is likely to shift toward 2027.
The collective agreement for pilots is set to expire in April 2027, followed by the cabin crew agreement in November 2027. Unions have expressed a desire to negotiate before these deadlines to avoid the issues experienced during previous renewals.
Potential for Future Conflict
Future industrial action could be triggered if new agreements are not reached or if the terms are perceived as unfavorable. Specifically, unions have warned that they may strike if schedules are changed in a manner similar to previous experiences.
While the current atmosphere is relatively calm, the lack of progress at the Charleroi labor auditorate continues to fuel frustration, suggesting that tensions could rise again before the 2027 deadlines.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there an immediate risk of Ryanair strikes?
According to Didier Lebbe, there is no immediate risk of a strike at this time, as the movement is currently focusing on meetings and reflection.
What is the “solidarity” strategy mentioned by CNE Aviation?
The strategy dictates that if a strike begins in one country, other countries with Ryanair planes and unions could follow suit in solidarity, leading to coordinated European strikes.
When do the current labor conventions expire?
The pilots’ convention ends in April 2027, and the cabin crew convention expires in November 2027.
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