25 March 2010

Striking BA crew forfeit travel perks

British Airways has withdrawn travel perks from staff who strike.

The carrier confirmed that those who took part in last weekend’s three-day walk out would not enjoy the major discounts on travel that British Airways employees get on top of pay.

Staff union Unite blasted the carrier for its "vindictive" action. The union plans to oppose the move officially, despite the fact that BA says the perk is non-contractual and can be withdrawn at any time at the discretion of management.

Chief executive Willie Walsh warned staff of the removal of the perks before they walked out last Saturday.

A BA spokesman said: "The industrial action impacted on our operation and our customers and we will undoubtedly suffer additional costs and further losses as a result."

The airline says it lost £21 million because of the most recent industrial action (see earlier TravelMole story).

by Dinah Hatch

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Your Comments (2)

Excellent news!

The members of staff who took strike action were warned well in advance that this privilege would be withdrawn if they took part in the strike. Presumably, each member of staff weighed up the pros and cons and acted accordingly, which is their right. It's a bit like being warned there is a speed camera in a 30mph zone and then deciding to drive past it at 40mph.. and then saying that the fine and penalty points were "vindictive"... Give me strength!

By Andrew Jones, Friday, March 26, 2010
The word "PERK" is a bit of a giveaway

If they were BA cabin crew travel rights then by all means they could get upset about it. As they are perks of the job then why should they be entitled to them after contributing to an unnecessary loss of &#pound;21M?

By Eddie Allen, Thursday, March 25, 2010