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Unite, the union representing workers in the civil air transport industry, has effectively escalated its dispute with Aer Lingus following the news that they are pausing transatlantic flights from Manchester airport. The union is now balloting members on industrial action, challenging proposals that could lead to the total closure of the airline's Manchester Airport long-haul base.
This development adds immediate pressure to a further developing story. We reported only a few days ago that Aer Lingus had paused sales of Manchester transatlantic flights from 31 March 2026 citing "uncertainty" surrounding the Manchester base.
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Latest Update: Strike Ballot Confirmed
While Aer Lingus has not confirmed if the Manchester base will definitely close, Unite argues that staff are being left in limbo while ticket sales beyond March remain paused.
On 9th January, the day after Aer Lingus announced flights would be paused, Unite General Secretary Sharon Graham said:
"his is a profitable base and Aer Lingus’ plans to close it amounts to simple economic vandalism, while showing a complete disregard for its loyal workforce."
They also confirmed in that they would be balloting Aer Lingus staff for further strike action in response to the Aer Lingus news.
Crucially, Unite has confirmed the following timeline for potential action:
Ballot opens: Immediately.
Ballot closes: 26 January 2026.
Potential Strike Dates: Late February 2026 onwards.
If members vote “yes," industrial action could disrupt long-haul routes from Manchester once again. most notably the popular Manchester to Orlando service. This will only be weeks before the scheduled sales pause in March. For Florida holidaymakers flying Aer Lingus to and from Manchester airport in February and March 2026, this news adds uncertainty to holiday plans.
Why Is Unite Balloting For Strikes?
Unite claims the Manchester long-haul base is profitable. They argue Aer Lingus should not move toward closure without fully disclosing the financial rationale specific to Manchester or providing a clear timeline for the workforce.
Regional officer John O'Neill added:
"No stone must be left unturned in pursuing all options in keeping the base operational and preserving jobs."
Unite points to Aer Lingus's recent financial health to bolster their argument. The airline reported an operating profit of €135 million in Q2 2025 (April to June), a significant year-on-year increase suggesting profitability which the airline denies.
Will My Manchester to Orlando Flight Be Cancelled?
If you have a holiday booked to Disney World or Orlando before 31 March 2026, the risk profile has changed.
Previously, the concern was for flights after March. Now, late-February disruption is a real possibility if the strike ballot passes.
This is what the situation looks like at this moment:
Before Late February: Flights are likely to operate as normal, but monitor the news closely.
Late February to 31st March: This is now the "danger zone" for strike disruption.
After 31st March: Ticket sales remain paused; the route's future is still unconfirmed.
2026 Timeline to Watch
The key 2026 dates about the Aer Lingus Manchester base closure and possible further strike action before ticket sales pause:
November 2025: Aer Lingus signals potential closure of the Manchester long-haul operation.
1st January 2026: 45 day consultation period ends
8th January 2026: Aer Lingus post on their website that sales for transatlantic flights from Manchester Airport will end.
9th January 2026: Unite confirms strike ballot is underway.
26th January 2026: A CRITICAL DATE: Strike ballot closes.
Late February 2026: Earliest window for strikes to begin; Unite must give 14 days' notice of action).
31 March 2026: The date Aer Lingus has currently paused ticket sales for Manchester long-haul services from.
What to do if you have flights booked
If you have flights booked remain calm ad try not to panic. Beyond the news of the ballot being called and Aer Lingus transatlantic flights from Manchester being paused from 31st March, nothing else is confirmed. The only practical steps you can currently take if you have a flight booked is to:
Monitor your email: Watch for updates from Aer Lingus or your tour operator (e.g., TUI, Virgin Holidays).
Hold off on extras: Avoid making non-refundable bookings for car hire, park tickets, or hotels until the ballot result is known on 26th January.
Know your rights: If your flight is cancelled due to a strike, you are generally entitled to a refund or re-routing (e.g., via Dublin or London Heathrow).
Don’t make bookings for experiences on the day you travel to Florida unless you can get a full refund and you are happy to possibly miss them.
Magic In A Minute
The future of the Aer Lingus base at Manchester Airport, and the uncertainty surrounding flights to Orlando, New York and Barbados, has just got another pressure point as strike action now looms. With a vote closing 26th January and the possibility of action from late February 2026, disruption could impact passengers even more.