My dear Boy! I took you for a man-in-the-know, but as you've just revealed - you are working off second hand (incorrect) hearsay and 'publications'.
I'm not referring to any 'publication' at all! I'm referring to first hand factual knowledge. Mates of mine are among the leavers! Others are among the 'looking for options' group.
Sure they took voluntary severance, and got a wedge of cash. But these are not 50 year olds heading out to pasture. They are youngsters with years to go before retirement, and they'll be looking for work.
The money wasn't the push factor - a hundred grand or so won't last a lifetime, but if they're handing out wedge to leave and it suits you to go, HAPPY DAYS.
They are leaving for other reasons. Primarily the lack of prospects, and the poor treatment they've received at the hands of Aer Lingus management over the last few years.
Frankly, most pilots in ALT (the younger ones at least) wouldn't piss on Aer Lingus management right now if they were on fire.
There is a deep rooted and mutual animosity festering between management and pilots in that company, which will poison it for at least the next generation.
This is the legacy of that hero, Willy Walsh.
Dive in.