EasyJet cabin crew in Spain set to strike in July

EasyJet cabin crew based in Spain could take strike action on nine days in July as part of a row over pay.

The dispute comes as the carrier is already cancelling flights from the UK because of staff shortages at Gatwick.

The airline said in a statement: “EasyJet has been advised of strike action by its cabin crew based in Spain between July 1-3, 15-17, and 29-31 at its bases in Barcelona, Malaga, and Palma.

“We are extremely disappointed with this action as we have made considerable progress towards a new CLA [Collective Labour Agreement] and so would like to continue the constructive dialogue with them.

“Should the industrial action go ahead there could be some disruption to our flying programme to and from Malaga, Palma and Barcelona during the strike period but at this stage, easyJet plans to operate its full schedule and we would like to reassure customers that we will do everything possible to minimise any disruption.”

The BBC reported that the budget airline and Spanish union USO have been holding talks on cabin crew pay since February but are now in a “deadlock situation” according to the union.

“EasyJet’s Spanish crew get basic pay of €950 per month (£816), the union said, which excludes bonuses and extra pay,” said the BBC.

The report said that the union hopes an agreement can be reached to avoid the strikes during a meeting with management on Tuesday (June 21).