An Easyjet plane approaches Josep Tarradellas Barcelona – El Prat Airport on the eve of a cabin crew strike, as it flies past a Stop traffic sign, near Barcelona, ​​Spain, on 30 June 2022. REUTERS/Albert Gea

MADRID, July 29 (Reuters) – Spanish easyJet (EZJ.L) pilots will go on strike for nine days in August to demand better working conditions, the SEPLA union said on Friday.

The union is calling on the low-cost airline to restore pilots’ working conditions before the COVID-19 pandemic and provide its pilots with a new multi-year contract.

EasyJet said it is aware of an upcoming pilot strike at its bases in Barcelona, ​​Malaga and Palma in Mallorca.

“We are disappointed with this action at this critical time for the industry,” the company said in a statement, adding that negotiations with SEPLA were ongoing.

Airlines are facing labor disputes this summer as a strong recovery in tourism has led to staff shortages, while soaring inflation encourages cabin crew and pilots to demand higher wages and best conditions.

Spain-based easyJet cabin crew on Thursday suspended a strike planned for the weekend after reaching an agreement with the airline for higher wages, the USO union said. Read more

Reporting by Inti Landauro and Corina Pons; edited by Aislinn Laing and Jason Neely

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