A couple of years ago the easyJet pilot group (ePG) was created. This is a cooperation between easyJet pilots based in the UK, Spain, Italy, France and Germany. They are represented by the local Member Associations from ECA, i.e. BALPA, SEPLA, IPA, SNPL and VC.

The problem is that pilots in the different countries have different legislations and different negotiation powers in their respective countries. Although every decision taken in the mainline has effects on all pilots, the easyJet management only wants to negotiate with the local representatives. For this reason ECA helped easyJet pilots with the creation of this group based on ECA protocol on Trans National Airlines (TNA). Every 4 months the ePG comes together to discuss the current issues in the airline. This month I was invited to participate.

Unfortunately one of the difficulties they face is the rejection from the easyJet management to recognise this cooperation. It would be so much more efficient for the airline and the different local representatives if negotiations on issues that influence every local base were carried out centrally by the collective. This is the reason why the ePG was created. Not only for the benefit of the pilots but also for the easyJet group itself.

It looks like management wants to divide the different local groups and by doing so they are creating mistrust among their employees. Fortunately, thanks to regular meetings in the ePG, the pilots remain connected and united. ECA calls upon the easyJet management to recognise the ePG and to negotiate with the ePG chairman who is elected by the local pilot groups in the 5 different countries.

Common issues that are of concern to the pilots include safety culture, training, promotions, social security changes in Europe, base transfers and future bases easyJet wants to open. Obviously in the future when easyJet opens more bases more member Associations will join the ePG.

During the meeting I attended I was impressed by the cooperation and commitment demonstrated by the pilots in the different easyJet local councils. ECA will continue to be involved in this good initiative and will do all that is in its power to get the recognition that this group deserves from the easyJet management.