Strike threat from Brussels Airlines pilots not yet averted

The trade unions ACLVB, ACV Puls and BBTK speak of a “worrisome situation” regarding the pilots’ working rules, which would promote fatigue and health problems.

“Urgent measures are needed to limit these risks and ensure sufficient rest periods, consistent schedules and more rest at weekends. Not to mention giving the pilots some social and family life back,” it said.

A reconciliation meeting on Monday yielded no results. A planned meeting today/Thursday was moved to Friday, according to management “to ensure that all trade union delegations can participate”. “The dialogue is still open, but there must be a solution for the safety and peace of mind of the pilots,” says BBTK member Olivier Van Camp. If no agreement is reached, “there will be major disruptions from December 11.” A strike notice had already been submitted.

“We still hope – together with the unions – to arrive at balanced and long-term solutions that offer our employees and our company perspective and growth opportunities,” the management responds. But she also points out that costs must be kept under control “in a highly competitive market”.

As far as cabin crew are concerned, the unions have now pledged not to strike in December. There is a proposal on the table, which, according to BBTK, includes financial guarantees and agreements regarding working conditions, rest and guaranteed income in the event of illness, on which the staff will be consulted in the coming weeks.