Business

British Airways face another round of strikes
by Zuzana Zelenakova

British Airways cabin crew union announced dates of new strikes, from May 18-22, May 24-28, May 30-June 3 and finally June 5-9. The Unite union representing the cabin crew refused a deal proposed by the airlines earlier this month with 81 percent of present crew members voting against. The Unite informed that 71 percent of all the cabin crew it represents voted. The announced walkout will affect not only half-term holidays passengers but also football fans planning on a trip to South Africa for the World Cup. "There can be no industrial peace without meaningful negotiations and while management victimises trade unionists and uses disciplinary procedures in a witch-hunt," s! aid the Unite officials Derek Simpson and Tony Woodley in a statement. "The seven days' notice period is sufficient time for BA management to do the sensible thing and reopen meaningful negotiations." Gatwick and City airports should operate as usual during the strikes. The company also informed that most of its long-haul flights will be provided from Heathrow airport. This is just another slap for British Airways after the airspace over the United Kingdom was closed for six days last months due to volcanic ash cloud from erupting volcano on Iceland. According to Chief Financial Officer Keith Williams, the closure cost the carrier about 100 million pounds. When it comes to the Unite´s rejection of the latest offer British Airlines stated it was “disappointed but not surprised.” "We urge Unite to put an end to this unnecessary dispute and focus on the best interests of its members. There can be nothing positive to be gained from further strikes," announced t! he airline company in a statement. "Unlike other businesses an! d airlin es, we have avoided compulsory redundancies. Cabin crew face no pay cut or reduction in terms and conditions, and remain the best rewarded in the UK airline industry."

related story (sgx17253): http://www.france24.com/en/20100510-british-airways-crew-ann...

by Zuzana Zelenakova for Cantell TV (http://cantell.tv)

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posted by Blog TechSource @ 3:31 PM