The long-running pay dispute between air traffic controllers and Highlands and Islands Airports Limited (HIAL) has moved one step closer to a resolution after union representatives agreed to recommend a deal to its members.
The offer, put forward by HIAL to air traffic controllers of the Prospect Union, involves an already agreed pay rise implemented for the 2019-20 period, with a similar award also taking place for 2020-21.
A retention payment – spanning three years – has also been agreed.
The offer will now be put forward by the union to its members in a ballot, which will close in the New Year.
HIAL managing director, Inglis Lyon, said: “After a lot of hard work and effort from all parties, we have arrived at an offer that Prospect will recommend to their members.
“This offer not only addresses the current dispute, but recognises the world-wide skills shortage in air traffic control and helps us to secure future service delivery and provide sustainable aviation services for our communities.”
The dispute has rumbled on for more than 12 months and was sparked after union members voted overwhelmingly to implement industrial action in search of a 10% pay increase, after rejecting the airport operator’s offer of a 2% rise.
Earlier this week, air traffic controllers agreed to end the work to rule they had been undertaking as the offer progressed to advanced talks.
