Union may postpone BA strike vote in hope of deal

The union representing British Airways cabin crew has said that Tuesday’s strike ballot is likely to be delayed as members consult on a new offer from the airline.

BA’s latest proposals, designed to prevent a third strike in six months, include a new top-up payment to guarantee that existing crew will not lose out on route allowances when newly-recruited crew begin flying.

However, Unite has warned that it was not in a position to recommend the BA proposal to members as it does not fully reinstate staff travel arrangements.

Unite joint general secretary Tony Woodley added: ‘The fact that staff travel arrangements have not been restored to thousands of crew prevents this offer from BA being the breakthrough everyone seeks.’

BA cabin crew have already staged 22 days of strikes for this year, costing the airline over £150 million in a long running dispute over jobs, working conditions and travel perks. BA stressed that should there be any further industrial action, it is determined to strengthen contingency plans at Heathrow airport and keep even more of its customers flying

Unite is also seeking an independent review of the cases of members suspended and sacked during the dispute.