Virgin Atlantic pilots are due to strike from December 22 to Christmas Day.
The Professional Pilots union which represents around a third of pilots at the airline said the dispute was over union recognition.
Virgin Atlantic does not recognise the PPU and instead deals with the British Airline Pilots association.
Members backed strike action in a recent ballot, with just over 70 percent voting in favour of industrial action.
Spokesman Steve Johnson said the union have been forced to take action after being "shut out" of negotiations over changes to pilot benefits.
He added: "Virgin Atlantic have consistently refused to recognise the PPU as a legitimate and independent union, essentially disenfranchising our members," he said.
"Despite the rhetoric that consultations are inclusive of all staff and unions, in practice this doesn't happen.
"We hope that Virgin acknowledge the mandate our members have given us, and help avoid strike action by recognising the PPU and halt the benefits review that is so damaging to our members long-term security.
"Our door is - and has always been - open to Virgin to take the necessary steps to prevent any disruption for Christmas travellers.
"This is such an easy fix for the company; by including all unions in negotiations - not just one selected by the company - it can then live up to its claimed inclusiveness and we can get round the table together to negotiate a sustainable outcome for our members.
Virgin Atlantic does not expect any disruption to its schedule.
Additional reporting by PA.
