The union Unite has warned private equity firm Apollo that its £5.7bn takeover of easyJet, which is Bristol Airport’s largest operator, must protect jobs and union agreements.
The airline accepted Apollo’s offer last week, prompting concern over the future of easyJet’s 19,000 employees.
easyJet employs more than 650 crew members at its base in Bristol Airport, which is its largest outside of London.
Unite represents thousands of cabin crew at the budget carrier and says it has begun engaging with legal counsel over the deal.
Sharon Graham, Unite general secretary, said: “Apollo has made broad statements about growing the business and working with its employees, however these warm words need to be translated into reality. Its growth strategy must translate into well-paid, unionised jobs and existing roles must be protected.”
She added: “Our members will always be our top priority at easyJet. Unite is committed to vigorously defending their jobs, pay and terms and conditions throughout the takeover and beyond.”
Analysts have warned that Apollo’s ownership could involve cost-cutting at the airline.
The private equity firm has previously said it places a high value on people and that retaining staff will be of “paramount importance”.
Lindsey Olliver, Unite regional coordinating officer, said: “Unite will ensure that employees’ terms and conditions, as well as collective bargaining, are protected in accordance with the relevant legislation and agreements.”
She added: “However, the true strength of our members lies in their industrial power. We look forward to working with Apollo to ensure those protections remain in place going forward.”
The union said it will exercise its full rights in accordance with the city code on takeovers and mergers.
Earlier this month, the airline celebrated the 20th anniversary of its base at Bristol Airport.
In 20 years of operations, easyJet has grown to be the largest airline at Bristol having flown over 72 million passengers since operations started there.
With 17 based aircraft, easyJet provides Bristol passengers with 70 domestic and international routes, including the most popular destination Geneva.