EasyJet plc is facing months of disruption over the Summer after pilots rejected a pay deal and moved closer to industrial action during the key holiday season.
Union Balpa said pilots rejected an offer that would have seen the pay of captains with more than ten years of service rise to £200,000 from £164,000 currently.
EasyJet pilots voted in favour of possible industrial action when consulted on an earlier pay proposal and although Balpa said it does not currently plan to hold a strike ballot over the latest offer, that position might change.
A source told reporters: “Balpa has already sounded out members about strike action.
“They are holding all the cards and the airline knows it.
“Bosses need to find even more money for pilots, or jets won’t get off the ground this summer and holidaymakers face travel agony.”
EasyJet confirmed that pay talks will resume and said it is not expecting any disruption.
"We are disappointed that the outcome of the ballot for the pilot pay deal narrowly fell short of the 50% required," said a spokesperson.
EasyJet expects bookings this summer to exceed the pre-Covid total for the first time with 70% of its available capacity already sold, it said last month.
Shares in the airline eased sightly to 523.6p.