Air Malta, pilots sign collective agreement

Air Malta and the Airline Pilots Association yesterday signed a collective agreement bringing to a close a lengthy dispute that at one time threatened to lead to strike action.

The sides agreed a comprehensive package that covers a three-year period from last August to July 2010.

A spokesman for the airline said the financial package was the major stumbling block during negotiations, because the company had reached a precarious financial situation in 2003. However, the two parties finalised what he called a win-win agreement following intense discussions that took place over seven months.

Increases in pilots' pay cheques, he said, are weighted towards the end of the three-year period, in line with the airline's need to continue to recover financially. Moreover, the pilots' association has agreed to increase work flexibility and monthly and yearly flying hours in line with legal limitations.

It was also agreed to synchronise flight time limitations closer to legal definitions, and to streamline certain allowances.

These changes were required to increase productivity and to ensure Air Malta's competitiveness within the aviation business, the spokesman said. They have also helped place the airline on a more level playing field with its competitors.

A spokesman for the association said the agreement reinforces the bridges between Air Malta and its pilots and paves the way for a harmonious industrial relationship.

Members of the association approved a draft collective agreement during a 12-hour voting period on Sunday. The agreement was also given the green light by the airline's board of directors before being signed yesterday.