Qantas pilots have voted unanimously to take protected industrial action for the first time since 1966 in pursuit of a Qantas flight/Qantas pilot clause in the new enterprise agreement.

Some 89 per cent of pilots eligible voted in the ballot, with 94 per cent voting to take protected industrial action as a means of applying pressure to management to come to the table and negotiate on how to achieve the clause.

Australian and International Pilots Association President Barry Jackson said pilots will now decide on what form of Protected Industrial Action they will take.

He, however, assured they will do everything to minimise disruption to travellers.

“Qantas pilots dedicate their careers to looking after Qantas passengers, so naturally we will be doing everything possible to minimise disruption to travellers and focus the pressure on management,” Captain Jackson said.

Qantas pilots want to continue operating Qantas flights, but they know management has plans to shift Qantas operations to Asia and start mass outsourcing.

As a result, AIPA is insisting on a Qantas flight/Qantas pilot clause in the new enterprise agreement. Our members need to know that if a Qantas flight is operating, then there will be a Qantas pilot at the controls.

“It’s important for Qantas pilots, but it’s also important for Qantas passengers. We understand that the company needs to adapt and evolve to stay profitable, but outsourcing the jobs of impeccably-trained and experienced Australian pilots isn’t a smart way to do it,” Mr Jackson said.