Ryanair is asking some of its Spanish flight attendants to return salary increases of up to €3,000 (£2,525), following a legal challenge that overturned a previous pay agreement.

The dispute centers around a 2022 pay rise negotiated between the airline and the Spanish union CCOO, which had been extended to all cabin crew, regardless of union affiliation. However, rival union Union Sindical Obrera (USO) contested the validity of that deal, arguing the negotiators lacked the authority to represent its members. In March, a Spanish court ruled in favor of USO, nullifying the agreement.

In response, Ryanair has begun informing USO-affiliated staff of the amounts they are expected to repay, citing “overpayment” following the now-invalid deal. The company has told affected workers that the funds will be deducted from their future payslips over time.

USO has condemned the move, criticizing Ryanair for clawing back five months of pay increases. But Ryanair insists it is merely following the court’s ruling. “USO are complaining about pay cuts that result from their own court case,” the airline said. “Ryanair is complying with the legal decision that USO pursued, while it is under appeal.”

USO said it is seeking legal solutions to protect its members and maintain fairness. According to the union, the repayments demanded range from €1,500 to €3,000, and many affected staff have already seen their salaries reverted to pre-agreement levels.

Notably, Ryanair has reached a new pay agreement with CCOO members, who will not be required to repay the earlier increases, despite the court ruling. However, USO delegates have reportedly been singled out, receiving instructions to return the funds, while some unaffiliated staff have been spared.

In a letter obtained by the BBC, Ryanair described the situation as an “overpayment” and offered a repayment plan via monthly salary deductions over the course of a year. The airline declined to disclose how many staff members are being asked to repay or what consequences await those who do not comply.

The row highlights deeper tensions within Spain’s labor landscape, particularly around union representation and authority. As the legal battle continues, affected flight attendants are left navigating financial uncertainty and frustration.