Pilots to strike over union recognition

Pilots at Virgin Atlantic are to strike from 22 December to Christmas Day in a dispute over union recognition.

The Professional Pilots Union (PPU) said its members voted by more than 7-1 in favour of industrial action. The PPU, which represents around a third of Virgin’s pilots, has been involved in a long-running dispute over recognition.

Spokesman Steve Johnson, said the union conducted a work-to-rule for two years to secure recognition but it has been “shut out” of negotiations.

“Virgin Atlantic have consistently refused to recognise the PPU as a legitimate and independent union, essentially disenfranchising our members,” he said.

“Despite the rhetoric that consultations are inclusive of all staff and unions, in practice this doesn’t happen.”