Avanti West Coast drivers’ overtime pay to significantly increase to £600 per shift in a decisive deal with Aslef union, bolstering operational efficiency and aiming to improve the reliability of services amidst England’s rail disruptions.
Avanti West Coast has reached an agreement with the Aslef union that will substantially increase the overtime pay of its train drivers. Under the new deal, drivers will receive £600 for each overtime shift, a significant jump from the previous £125 flat fee. This arrangement, expected to last until 2025, is part of efforts to improve the reliability of the train operator’s services amidst ongoing scheduling disruptions and industrial actions affecting England’s rail system.
This pay increase could see some drivers’ annual earnings rise to around £100,000, a figure highlighted by the Sunday Times, although neither Aslef nor Avanti has confirmed specific salary details. The agreement aims to address the staffing concerns and enhance service resilience, as criticized performance had led to calls for Avanti’s contract for the West Coast Main Line to be terminated. However, Rail Minister Huw Merriman has indicated that the government intends to retain Avanti’s contract despite these criticisms.
Mick Whelan, the general secretary of Aslef, confirmed the resolution of the overtime dispute and expressed contentment with the deal, emphasizing its importance for service improvement. Avanti also expressed satisfaction, viewing the agreement as a crucial step toward bolstering operational efficiency and ensuring reliable train services for passengers. This new deal forms part of a broader attempt to navigate the challenges within the UK rail industry, separate from the wider dispute surrounding train drivers’ pay and conditions across other English rail companies.