easyJet pilots have reportedly rejected a pay rise that would have seen captain’s annual wages increase to almost £200,000 ($250k) by April 2025.
According to The Sun, a deal was put to easyJet pilots who are members of the British Airline Pilots’ Association (BALPA) in a vote, but it was rejected by a majority.
There are fears that if the offer on the table is not improved then easyJet pilots may threaten strike action which could have huge consequences for the low-cost carrier during its busiest time of year.
The Sun reported that the proposed deal would have seen captain’s (with 10-year service) increase from £163,589 to £190,000 from October 2024, before increasing further in 2025.
Senior first officers were offered a further £20,000 a year, increasing their annual salary to £112,879 while first officers’ pay would have been boosted to £75,446 a year.
A source told The Sun that BALPA members have already been approached about possible strike action.
“They are holding all the cards, and the airline knows it. Bosses need to find even more money for pilots, or jets won’t get off the ground this summer and holidaymakers face travel agony,” the source said.
easyJet responded to the vote by saying it was “disappointed” the proposal “narrowly fell short of the 50% required”.
The airline confirmed it will be meeting with BALPA shortly to discuss the results and to seek a resolution.