An industrial action by Aerlingus cabin crew has created turmoil for thousands of air passengers and crippled the operations of the Irish national airline. Over 5,000 travelers were stranded, not knowing when, or if, they will fly. The bone of contention are the new rosters that were imposed on employees by the management. The company had to cancel over 50 flights due to the cabin crew roster dispute. Negotiations between unions and the management did not break the deadlock. Aer Lingus warned cabin crews already in October that they could face immediate removal from the payroll which may culminate in dismissal. Following the work-to-rule protest 250 Aerlingus cabin crew have been removed from duties and the payroll. Last week the management issued a dramatic ultimatum to cabin crew — work new rosters or face the sack. Meanwhile the airline has continued to pay for leased aircraft to ensure a full schedule - estimated to cost around €20,000 per short-haul aircraft.