Jetstar pilots could walk off the job a matter of days before Christmas, in a move that could disrupt the holiday plans of thousands of Australians over the airline's busiest period.

The Fair Work Commission gave the Australian Federation of Air Pilots the green light on Monday to hold a ballot on whether to take protected industrial action over a year-long pay dispute with the budget airline.

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Jetstar did not object to the union's application.

The ballot is not expected to be finalised and approved by Elections Australia for at least another three weeks, meaning any proposed strike action would not commence until mid-December at the earliest.

Pilots have been negotiating a new Enterprise Bargaining Agreement since January.

But negotiations have broken down in recent weeks.

Pay and conditions

The union's executive director Simon Lutton said Jetstar's pilots were the lowest-paid jet airline pilots among Australia's four major carriers, and there were also concerns over working conditions that could threaten safety.

"They have been subjected to gruelling rostering practices which the airline has refused to address at the negotiating table," Lutton said.

"The Jetstar pilots are disappointed to have to take this step.

"But, as negotiating with the company in good faith has got them nowhere, they have been left with no choice."

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A Jetstar spokesperson told 7NEWS.com.au: "It is disappointing that the AFAP has taken this step this early in negotiations.

"We remain committed to reaching a new agreement to support the great work our people do every day, but not at any cost."