European pilot group demands action over Ryanair sick leave policy

The European Cockpit Association (ECA) pilot group has urged regulators to take action over what it described as a "safety hazard" caused by Ryanair's approach to flight crews' sick leave, according to a letter seen by Reuters. The carrier has spent the last 2 years negotiating improved pay and conditions with its pilots and cabin crew after a revolt by some staff forced it to recognise trade unions for the first time. The ECA said Ryanair adopts a practice of systematically questioning absences due to certified sickness, leading to investigative and disciplinary meetings where staff are threatened with potential dismissal. A Ryanair spokeswoman said the airline operates "a standard sick pay scheme, and like all employers, manages absenteeisms". <br/>