British Airways strike likely to be called off

ACCORDING to reports, the planned pilot strike due to hit British Airways over Christmas has been called off.

In the report, pilot’s union Balpa has backed down seemingly admitting that they are unlikely to negotiate a better deal with the airline.

The Christmas strike was due to take place after BA pilots staged a two day walk out in September and were due to hold another 10 day strike over the Christmas period, but after a lengthy four week negotiation, talks appear to have hit a stalemate.

During the talks, British Airways have agreed however to increase the pilots wages by 11.9% over the next three years, and reinstate the pilot’s free travel allowance which will come into place next September.

Explaining the reasons behind the union decision, “More action may move BA, but we cannot say how far. Each stage increases pressure on the company but also for the pilot body. All indications are further action will not move BA’s position readily.”

Another reason stated for the decision was the demise of Thomas Cook, with their pilots willing to take on British Airways roles.

Pilots will now take to the vote to decide whether they are to accept the terms of the agreement.