The conflict mainly revolves around the wages of the pilots. They agreed to a 20 percent pay cut at the start of the corona crisis, but it is still in effect today. Ryanair also wants to terminate a collective bargaining agreement on working and rest times. According to pilots’ representative Beca, this is against the law.
The ultimatum given to the board of the Irish low-cost carrier a week ago failed to produce an agreement, and a last chance meeting on Wednesday also failed. More than 80 percent of pilots stationed at Charleroi airport will thus strike on Saturday and Sunday and the disruption is likely to be significant, according to Lebbe.
CEO Philippe Verdonck of Charleroi airport cannot yet say how many passengers will be affected. He is still waiting for information from Ryanair. The airline has already contacted all passengers whose flight has been or will be canceled or will do so soon.
On Saturday morning, the striking staff and the unions will meet in the departure hall of the airport.
Beca, CNE and ACV Puls still warn that they can continue to campaign until the corona collective agreement expires in October 2024.