Air Malta's court injunction against pilot strike places fundamental rights in danger, according European Cockpit Association (ECA).

In a statement this afternoon, the ECA said that it regrets Air Malta's "attempt to breach a fundamental right that is recognized by the EU and the Council of Europe.

"Air Malta has decided to launch a court application for an injunction to ban the Pilots' Association recourse to industrial action after a long period of unsuccessful negotiations over working conditions. ECA trusts that Malta's judicial system will guarantee the fundamental rights and freedoms of trade unions in line with the country's obligations under national and international law."

The European Cockpit Association, which represents over 38,000 pilots in Europe, said it "is seriously concerned" about Air Malta's court application for an injunction to ban industrial actions from pilots. The injunction has been temporarily upheld by the courts and the next hearing in the case will be held on Friday.

 "We are lucky to live in democratic countries that are committed to respect fundamental rights; the right to strike is one of those and a key pillar of our democracies" said ECA President Dirk Polloczek.  "Air Malta's application to suppress the right to strike should be taken very seriously; it is a clear attack on everybody's freedoms."

The European Cockpit Association urged Air Malta to "swiftly withdraw" its application and to resume talks with its pilots.