BALPA has today written to Ryanair to accept their offer to discuss recognising BALPA as the representative union for all their UK-based pilots.

Brian Strutton, BALPA General Secretary said:

“This change of heart and position by Ryanair is welcome. We take Ryanair at their word that they are willing to enter into discussions with a view to recognising BALPA as more than 20 other UK-based airlines have.

“I have written to Ryanair to accept their offer of talks, and have asked to include the TUC and ACAS (The Advisory, Arbitration and Conciliation Service) in those discussions.

“We look forward to engaging with Ryanair positively towards a quality recognition agreement as soon as possible.”

Frances O’Grady, General Secretary of the TUC said:

“We are hopeful that this indicates a broader move to Ryanair being a much more union-friendly company. We look forward to working alongside BALPA to achieve that aim.”