Pilots' concern at further BA strikes
10-May-2010 Commenting on the decision by Unite to announce further strike action by British Airways cabin crew, Jim McAuslan, General Secretary of the pilots' union BALPA (British Airline Pilots' Association) said:
'Today's announcement of further strikes in BA is disappointing given the continuing uncertainty in our industry caused by volcanic ash and an economy emerging from recession.
'Even at this late stage we call on both sides to work together to find a solution and BALPA stands ready to offer any help it can to achieve that.
'Pilots are not in dispute with the company, having already agreed an annual savings plan of £25 million per year and seen this overwhelmingly endorsed in a membership ballot.
'BA pilots, like other groups in the airline, have made a sacrifice to help BA through economic difficulties which have been made worse, of course, by the additional problems of volcanic ash. We feel it is for all groups within BA to make a contribution.
'Pilots will be working normally throughout any strike and will ensure that a professional service is maintained.
'Pilot representatives will be meeting later this week to review this worsening position which has the potential to sour working relations between BA and its cabin crew for years to come.'