Caribbean Airlines says that all its international and domestic flights scheduled for today will be affected because many of its pilots scheduled to work have called in sick.

The reason for the apparent protest is not clear.

However, in a statement this morning, Caribbean Airlines said it is disappointed with the action of the pilots.

It noted that the management of the airline and the pilots’ union – the Trinidad and Tobago Pilot’s Association have been in communication.

Caribbean Airlines says it will continue to urge further open and frank discussion in good faith with trade union, while “exploring all options available.”

Meanwhile, the airline’s chief executive officer, Michael DiLollo, says the industrial action comes at the start of the critical summer season.

“We are naturally concerned firstly for the health and welfare of our pilot body since this is an unprecedented occurrence.

This unfortunate situation has disrupted our scheduled services at the beginning of our critical summer season, during which we count most on our operational crews to demonstrate reliability and service for our loyal customers.” said DiLollo

DiLollo also expressed concern about the potential negative impact of the disruptions to passengers.

“Many families choose this time to travel and have committed hard-earned savings to enjoying this time together.

To disappoint them will surely be a serious breach of our unspoken contract with them, a betrayal far deeper than even our legal commitment to provide the promised service.”

Caribbean Airlines says passengers are to confirm their flight times with the Flight Status Tool at www.caribbean-airlines.com before going to the airport to avoid any potential further inconvenience.

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