Pilots agree to end strike threat

Aer Lingus pilots had threatened a two-day strike

Aer Lingus pilots have said they will call off a planned strike, if managers go into talks over a controversial move from Shannon to Belfast.

Almost 500 pilots were due to stage a two-day protest from midnight on Monday, which would affect 40,000 passengers.

They are angry Belfast staff will earn less than those in the Republic.

The decision to transfer the Heathrow route has also prompted fears of job losses at Shannon.

Aer Lingus is seeking to recruit up to 30 pilots for its Belfast International Airport operation, as part of a £100m investment.

More than 50% of Aer Lingus is owned by Ryanair, the Irish State and the unions.

Ryanair, which owns a 28% stake in Aer Lingus, promised three additional flights from Shannon to various London airports if Aer Lingus closed the Heathrow route.

Aer Lingus said it would hire planes from Ryanair to provide cover if the strike took place.