Qantas wins case with Fair Work Commission, ending pilot dispute

QANTAS has welcomed a decision by the Fair Work Commission in the arbitration case with the Australian and International Pilots Association (AIPA), saying it has endorsed the airline's right to manage its own business.

"This brings to a close disputes with three unions which affected Qantas operations in 2011," said Qantas spokeswoman Olivia Wirth, who added that the outcome provides certainty for 1,600 long-haul pilots.

A statement from the carrier said the union was not successful in its original claim that Qantas terms and conditions would in effect apply to other entities within the group, including Jetstar.

The commission accepted the airline's evidence of the financial position of its international operation, and the industry evidence of the significant competitive environment in which Qantas International operates.

"The unions' claims that would have significantly impacted management prerogative were rejected," said Ms Wirth.

"Had the union been successful with its claims, including its so-called 'job security' claims, it would have meant that over time Qantas would not be financially viable."

Qantas said it has already "had resolution on the agreements for its employees represented by the Transport Workers' Union and the Australian Licensed Aircraft Engineers Association," in a statement.