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BA and Iberia pilot unions to work together

16-Nov-2009
BA and Iberia pilot unions to work together
Representatives of BALPA and SEPLA, the unions representing pilots in British Airways and Iberia, have welcomed the news of the merger between Iberia and British Airways. Pilots union BALPA represents over 3000 British Airways pilots while SEPLA represents almost 99% of the 2000 pilots working in IBERIA.

In anticipation of the merger the two unions have held several meetings over the past couple of years and are committed to working together to:

  • ensure that the new merged company is a success;
  • ensure that BALPA and SEPLA members share in that success; and
  • guard against any possible threats to BALPA and SEPLA members
The mutuality agreement between the two unions that is already in place as a result of those meetings outlines areas of common interest and a mechanism for co-operation between the two pilot groups.

Commenting on the announcement Jim McAuslan, BALPA General Secretary said; "our industry needs this. But it will come with its challenges. Management will be stretched if they are to keep their focus on improving the existing businesses whilst building a new trans-national one. How the process of change is managed will be crucial, but the signs of having learned lessons from the Air France/KLM approach is encouraging. Interesting times lie ahead, but this is the right direction.'

(c) Centre for Asia Pacific Aviation. Date posted: 16-Nov-09

 

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