Ryanair’s Chief Pilot Aidan Murray, has been dismissed following allegations of repeated ‘inappropriate and unacceptable behaviour towards a number of female junior pilots’.
It has been reported that the first complaint bout the alleged inappropriate behaviour was received last month followed by a further eight reports from other female Ryanair flight crew.
An investigation then discovered that on numerous occasions Murray had swapped rosters in order to fly with certain female pilots. He is also alleged to have sent inappropriate text messages.
In a public statement, a Ryanair spokesperson said: “We do not comment on queries relating to individual employees.”
It adds: “All concerns, questions, and complaints will be taken seriously and handled promptly, confidentially and professionally.”
The code of conduct also says: “Ryanair encourages people who have concerns about suspected serious misconduct or any breach or suspected breach of law to come forward and express these concerns without fear of punishment or unfair treatment.
“All allegations of wrongdoing will be addressed in line with the appropriate policy and where appropriate, thoroughly investigated.”
It’s believed an appeals process forms part of any disciplinary procedure. There is no suggestion that safety was compromised at any stage.
Ryanair is Europe’s biggest airline in terms of passenger numbers. Its largest base is at London Stansted.
According to the British Airline Pilots’ Association (Balpa), female pilots make up only 6% of the total flight crew worldwide. The pilots’ union is campaigning for more diversity on the flight deck, and has enlisted UK government support.
