Ryanair says it is willing meet representatives of the Forsa union this week in attempt to stave off planned strike action by pilots.
The airline’s Irish-based pilots have already voted to walk out for 24 hours, starting Thursday (July 12).
Union bosses want the talks to take place at a neutral venue by Ryanair is understood to be insisting they take place at its HQ.
Passengers are expected to be informed on Tuesday (July 10) of any contingency plans ahead of the proposed walkout.
Those pilots balloted by the Irish Airline Pilots’ Association (IALPA), a branch of Forsa, voted 99% in favour of strike action.
In its letter to the airline, IALPA further warns of a series one “one and two day disruptions during July and August”.
Ryanair offers to meet its pilots (and FORSA) at neutral venue on Tues or Wed to avoid unnecessary pilot strike on Thurs (see attached). pic.twitter.com/G0J0yTssbf
— Ryanair (@Ryanair) July 9, 2018
Ryanair says the union represents just over 25% of its pilot workforce in the republic.
In its response to the union, the airline criticises IALPA for refusing to meet at its offices and urges leaders to meet at 10am on Tuesday or Wednesday.
IALPA members are in dispute with the airline over seniority, allocation of base transfers, promotions and annual leave.
The union says while it has agreed to talks with Ryanair, it expects Thursday’s strike to go ahead.
"IALPA has proposed and reserved a neutral venue in order to allay concerns expressed by Ryanair a meeting between the parties would become a ’media circus’," said the union in a statement issued via Twitter.