The Irish Airline Pilots Association is meeting today to decide whether to accept Aer Lingus's latest offer of talks over the pay and conditions for new pilots in Belfast.
The union's members at Aer Lingus are set to begin a two-day strike tomorrow to protest at the airline's plans to hire the new pilots on lesser pay and conditions than those enjoyed in the Republic.
Yesterday evening, Aer Lingus management made a new offer of talks in an effort to avert the stoppage.
However, it remains unclear if the IALPA will accept the offer as it does not allow for negotiations on the pay and conditions of Belfast pilots.
Aer Lingus is defending its actions on the grounds that industrial relations mediator Phil Flynn recommended that the airline be allowed to open new bases abroad and adhere to local pay rates and job conditions.
However, Mr Flynn said over the weekend that, had he known of plans for a Belfast base, he would have recommended that pilots' concerns be dealt with through joint discussions.
Hi: 17°C / Lw: 13°C
Revealed: Ulster's most dangerous roads
Deputy First Minister in Baghdad for peace mission
Thomas Beattie gives birth to healthy baby girl
Iran warns: attack us and we'll strike you back
Swimsuit photo shoot in buildup to Vietnam final
Federer and Nadal set for Centre court final
Mandela honoured with the class of 2008
Supporters that made Euro 2008 one to remember
Fashion of the wives throughout the tournament
Pop princess Minogue wows fans at Odyssey gig
Try your luck in our GAA 'pick the score' competition
Looking forward to the famous biking event
Ship's Belfast beginnings celebrated in exhibition
Applauding Ulster's most exceptional women
Special report on Northern Ireland's worst house fire
Celebrating excellence at the inaugural awards gala 
Special multimedia report on Belfast Wheel