British Airways strike threat looming

British Airways is walking on thin ice concerning its disgruntled staff and the possibility of a strike during the summer season would potentially devastate BA.

Talks of a strike were prompted by the airline’s baggage handlers and check in employees, who all voted to reject British Airways planned cuts to a number of areas as the airline continues to struggle in the economic climate. British Airways CEO Willie Walsh has stated that his employees need to understand that the company is currently fighting for survival.

The union’s workers at British Airways have been meeting regularly over the matter, which only makes the reality of a walkout during the height of the summer season even more likely. This could threaten the holiday plans of millions of Britons, while having a domino effect on other aspects of travel, like insurance, car hire agencies, travel agencies, and could even be the straw that breaks BA’s strained camel back.

The union leaders are coming under increasing pressure to strike unless they can come to a reasonable way to cut costs while still maintain staff and wages that their members can agree on.

One of the union officers handling the negotiations says that he thinks that they can get away without calling for a strike ballot for about two more weeks. However, they have already heard a lot of criticism that they have not called one yet.

British Airways has hemorrhaged more than £401 million in the previous year alone is now juggling with plans to cut 3,700 jobs and freeze pay for its remaining staff. The company plans to revamp or entirely cut the family friendly roster, which is seen as very vital for the union’s female staff.

British Airways is hoping that the union will come to a compassionate understand over how bad their current financial situation is.