Virgin Atlantic faces work-to-rule over pilot representation

Members of the Professional Pilots’ Union (PPU) have balloted in favour of a work-to-rule policy at Virgin Atlantic Airways, as the group seeks to be the only pilot body represented at the airline. The PPU launched in Jan 2013, after 70% of Virgin Atlantic pilots backed the creation of a new union following a pay dispute in 2011. The PPU said it represents around 70% of pilots at Virgin Atlantic, although other sources indicate that the number could be closer to 50-60%. The group has been seeking sole representation at Virgin Atlantic for almost 2 years, but the British Airline Pilots Association (BALPA) is currently the only recognised pilots’ union at the airline. “Virgin Atlantic has repeatedly confirmed that it will only work with one union; making BALPA's derecognition inherent in any recognition of the PPU,” The PPU said. <br/>