Pilots at easyJet reportedly reject pay offer

(Sharecast News) - Pilots at easyJet could be on strike over the crucial summer holiday period, it emerged on Monday, amid reports their union had rejected a pay offer. According to the Sun, representatives from the British Airline Pilots' Association (Balpa) and easyJet were returning to negotiations in an attempt to reach an agreement.

The number of pilots willing to strike and potential strike dates was unclear, but the Sun said there was speculation that the union could choose peak summer holiday periods to maximise its leverage.

Under UK labour law, trade unions need to provide at least 14 days' notice before starting industrial action.

EasyJet captains with 10 years of experience reportedly earn £163,589, a figure that would have risen to £190,000 in October and potentially £200,000 by April had the offer been accepted.

Senior first officers were meanwhile apparently offered a pay rise of £20,000, bringing their annual earnings to £112,879, while first officers' salaries would have increased to £75,446.

An unnamed Balpa source quoted by the Sun suggested that without further concessions from the airline, summer travel could be severely disrupted.

Responding to the situation, an easyJet spokesperson expressed disappointment over the rejection of the pay deal, but affirmed ongoing dialogue with Balpa.

At 1514 BST, easyJet shares were down 0.72% at 521.2p.

Reporting by Josh White for Sharecast.com.