Qantas and Pilots' Union Reach Provisional Agreement on New Pay Deal

Post by : Saif

Qantas and the Australian and International Pilots Association (AIPA) have reached a provisional agreement on a new wage deal, marking significant progress in negotiations that could prevent planned industrial action by the airline's long-haul pilots.

The agreement follows recent votes by long-haul pilots in favour of protected industrial action, including 24-hour work stoppages and delayed sign-ons, after earlier negotiations over pay and working conditions failed to produce an agreement.

Agreement Covers Around 1,700 Long-Haul Pilots

The proposed deal applies to approximately 1,700 long-haul pilots operating Qantas' Airbus A380, Airbus A330 and Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft, primarily on international routes.

Short-haul pilots are covered under a separate employment agreement and are not included in the latest negotiations.

Union Welcomes Progress in Negotiations

The Australian and International Pilots Association said discussions held before Australia's Fair Work Commission resulted in substantial progress.

AIPA President Andrew Marshall said both sides had reached a broad agreement and expressed confidence that the deal could be formally completed in the coming days.

The union believes the negotiations have moved closer to resolving long-running concerns over pilot pay and employment conditions.

Qantas Highlights Pay and Career Benefits

Qantas welcomed the provisional agreement, describing it as an "in principle" deal that would provide significant salary increases, improved rostering arrangements and better career development opportunities for pilots.

The airline said the agreement also balances employee expectations with the operational and financial needs of the business.

If finalised, the deal is expected to reduce the immediate risk of industrial action that could have affected international flight operations.

Ground Workers May Also Vote on Industrial Action

While negotiations with long-haul pilots have progressed, another labour dispute remains unresolved.

A union representing approximately 650 Qantas ground workers announced that members are expected to vote soon on whether to take protected industrial action over separate employment issues.

Under Australian labour laws, industrial action such as strikes or work stoppages can only proceed after approval from the Fair Work Commission and a successful vote by union members. Employers must also receive advance notice before any action begins.

The outcome of both negotiations will be closely watched as Qantas continues to manage labour relations while maintaining international flight operations.

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