14.03.10
British Airways is set to announce which of its services may be cancelled because of a strike planned by flight attendants for next weekend today or tomorrow. The airline will cancel hundreds of domestic and European flights as it prioritises lucrative long-haul routes. Willie Walsh, the airline’s chief executive, said over the weekend that BA will draft in 1,000 volunteers to work with around 6000 cabin crew who do not strike to keep all its Boeing 777 long-haul fleet operating.
The dispute, over decreased staffing levels and pay at the airline, will see the first three strike start on March 20, with a second four-day walkout due to begin on 27 March. This second strike coincides with the Easter break for almost all of independent schools, starting on March 26, and threatens to disrupt family getaways.
BA is emphasising that it intends to operate the majority of its flights, about 70% overall. Passengers on short-haul trips are likely to face the worst disruption. BA will also be operating a minimum of 23 aircraft with substitute crews chartered in from other airlines.
Meanwhile, a Downing Street 'source' refused to verify to the BBC whether or not Gordon Brown has spoken to the Unite union. The Guardian states that the PM called Unite's general secretary to discuss potential options to the dispute.
The union says it acknowledges the ‘need for change’, and has proposed its own cost-cutting package, which it says is worth £63m. BA have rejected this, disputing this figure. Unite has confirmed it will not strike over Easter, but warned there may very well be further action after 14 April if a resolution with BA is not agreed.
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