ITAA respond as Ryanair pilots vote in favour of strike action
Holiday disruptions impending following Ryanair vote
Dublin, 9th August 2019 The Irish Travel Agents Association (ITAA) is calling for resolution as Irish based Ryanair pilots vote in favour of strike action. This follows news that UK based Ryanair pilots are have scheduled a 48-hour strike to take place on August 22nd and an additional 72-hour strike for September 22nd.
John Spollen, President of the ITAA, said, “The ITAA is urging Ryanair and unions to reach a resolution and avoid any disruptive strike action. We are wary that any pilot strike in August will cause serious impact for both holidaymakers and corporate travellers, as we are still in the busiest travel period of the year, with knock on effects on accommodation and connecting travel.”
Spollen continued, “Travel agents are on the front line when strikes, cancellations and other disruptions occur and are the first port of call for customers. While we are always happy to minimise all disruption for our customers, we urge the airline and greater travel industry to put the consumer first in an effort to avoid such disruption to travel plans.”
Spollen concluded, “Those who have booked with a travel agent can contact their agent in the case that any strike is confirmed and we will work to rearrange travel plans to the best of our abilities. In fact, a number of agents have already been in contact with travellers to inform them of the ongoing situation. Those who have not booked directly with the airline will face a different process and should contact the airline directly and consult their travel insurance provider. ”
