British Airways passengers face the threat of widespread disruption after cabin crew voted overwhelmingly in favour of theoretical strike action over pay.
A Unite union consultative ballot was held last week to gauge feeling among BA mixed fleet cabin crew, reports The Guardian.
It found 95 per cent of respondents — a third of those eligible to take part — in favour of industrial action should a vote proper be held.
In 2010, BA introduced mixed fleet cabin crew on different terms and conditions to cut costs (see news, June 2010).
This new work force is far younger, expected to work on long-haul and short-haul flights and, according to Unite, reliant on working tax credits to supplement annual salaries thought to be not much over £12,000.
This new flexible cabin crew has been hoping to close the pay gap with its better paid older colleagues, but has so far gained no ground.
Furthermore, the news that IAG chief executive Willie Walsh received a pay rise of 400 per cent to earn £5 million in 2013 has caused more ill-feeling.
A BA spokesman told The Guardian: "Our cabin crew positions attract a high level of applicants due to the competitive package offered, our extensive route network and promotional opportunities.
"We are currently conducting pay talks with all parts of the airline and any talk of industrial action by one of four cabin crew groups is completely speculative."
Graham Smith
