BA pilots vote for strike action
British Airways pilots have voted 93% in favour of strike action in a ballot organised by union BALPA.
The union said the turnout was 90% and has said BA should settle the dispute rather than allow the strike to go ahead.
Meanwhile, BA is going to the High Court on Tuesday to try to get an injunction against industrial action. The court appearance means further negotiations are on hold while BALPA prepares ‘to defend our right to take this action’.
BALPA General Secretary, Brian Strutton, said: “This strong result demonstrates the resolve of BA pilots, and shows BA that it must table a sensible improved offer if a strike is to be averted.
“Sadly three days of ACAS talks have not moved the company’s position one iota. Settlement of this dispute is in BA’s hands.
“We do not wish to inconvenience our customers, which is why we have tried to resolve this matter through negotiation starting last November – it is BA who has regrettably chosen to drag this out into the summer months.”
BALPA believes the cost to BA to settle dispute in full is significantly less than the cost would be of one day’s strike action.
In a statement, BALPA said: “We currently do not have dates for any potential strike action and will issue an update on this in due course.
“We remain hopeful that this dispute can be resolved before strike action, but we remain committed to action if necessary.”
(travelmole)
