A change in the head of operations at easyJet has been welcomed by pilots union Balpa following a “challenging period” under his predecessor.
The budget carrier confirmed that former Wizz Air chief pilot David Morgan had been handed the position of chief operating office on a permanent basis.
He had served as interim COO since July following the departure of former incumbent Peter Bellew “to pursue other business opportunities” amid concern over flight cancellations.
Balpa members at easyJet had backed a no-confidence vote in Bellew – who previously held an identical role at Ryanair – over plans to cut 700 pilot jobs during the pandemic in July 2020.
EasyJet confirmed Morgan’s appointment while announcing annual financial results this week.
The airline said: “David has been an integral part of the easyJet leadership team since he joined as chief pilot in 2016 from Wizz Air where he held the same role. David remains an active pilot.”
Balpa said in a statement welcoming Morgan’s appointment: “After a challenging period with the former COO, Peter Bellew, Balpa expects easyJet to increase its standing in the low-cost short haul UK market.”
The union’s national officer Terry Brandon said: “Balpa is looking forward to working with easyJet in progressing and honouring our agreements, especially on crew fatigue mitigation and roster stability.
“As an ATPL (Airline Transport Pilot Licence) holder, it is hoped that with his direct experience of, and insight into, the challenges faced by his pilots, a more constructive and sympathetic way forward can begin.”