Pilots employed by Network Aviation, a subsidiary of Qantas Airways, are set to go on strike for 24 hours on October 4th, according to the Australian Federation of Air Pilots (AFAP). This industrial action has the potential to disrupt flights to mining and energy projects in Western Australia.
The AFAP has been in negotiations with Qantas management regarding revisions to wage policies in Western Australia, a resource-rich state housing substantial iron ore and natural gas deposits.
Chris Aikens, Senior Industrial Officer at AFAP, expressed the union’s commitment to reaching an agreement for its members in Western Australia but noted their disappointment in having to resort to strike action.
The union represents approximately 85% of the pilots working for Network Aviation, totaling around 250 pilots.
In a vote held late on Monday, more than 99.5% of AFAP pilot members at Network Aviation approved several legally protected industrial actions, including work bans and stoppages.
A spokesperson for QantasLink, a Qantas airline brand, stated they are actively working to resolve the situation and prevent industrial action. The airline has offered significant pay increases and additional guaranteed days off to the pilots as part of their negotiations.
The airline also emphasized its readiness to implement contingency plans to minimize disruption to customers if the industrial action proceeds.
