Virgin Australia unions plan merger to impose Bain Capital’s cost-cutting demands
The Virgin Independent Pilots Association (VIPA) and the Transport Workers Union (TWU) confirmed this month that they will amalgamate the two unions by July, subject to a vote of pilots.
Both unions have been talking up the supposed benefits for pilots and other Virgin Australia workers of the merger, but it has nothing to do with defending the jobs and conditions of airline workers.
Its real purpose is to strengthen the capacity of the union bureaucracy to prevent any opposition to the ongoing restructuring drive by Virgin to drastically slash costs at workers’ expense. This has been the agenda implemented from day one by the airline’s new owners, US private equity firm Bain Capital.
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Boost for pilots: TWU & Virgin pilots to merge
The Transport Workers’ Union and Virgin Independent Pilots Association are planning to merge in July with a pilots’ division to be created, aimed at boosting the profile and representation of pilot members.
Pilots will maintain a distinct voice in the TWU, while joining cabin crew, baggage handlers, ramp workers, cleaners, caterers, refuellers and security workers, in a unified presence across the industry.
The announcement will be made today at TWU’s National Council oversight body, with VIPA attending for the first time.
National Secretary Michael Kaine said the TWU would be a stronger union with VIPA pilots.