Many holidaymakers to Australia will be hoping for a smooth journey.
Qantas – one of the largest Australia travel airlines said today that the BA cabin crew strike would not affect passengers travelling between Australia and the UK with them.
Some Qantas flights operate a code-share service with BA but Qantas today reassured all passengers booked to fly to Australia and other international destinations that they will not be affected by the strike. However those flying on code-share short-haul services between the UK and the rest of Europe may be affected by the strikes.
Those travelling to Australia with BA direct are advised to contact the airport before they set off. Whilst British Airways are trying to keep as many long-haul flights open as possible, there is no doubt that some services will be affected. And whilst BA try to keep open the profitable long-haul flights, those travelling from the UK to Europe will suffer the brunt of the strikes.
The strikes by BA cabin crew started today and will finish on May 28, there are then 2 further strike dates planned for between 30 May and June 3 and June 5 to June 9.
BA are aiming to fly around 60,000 people per day this week and have trained volunteers to act as emergency cabin crew. Non-union members from overseas have also been drafted in to help.
The strikes are continuing after talks between BA boss Willie Walsh and Unite leader Tony Woodley failed to reach a compromise. The union are asking for the members who participated in the strikes last March to have their travel perks reinstated. However the talks were interrupted by activists from the Socialist Worker group and there were also angry reactions after it was revealed that Mr Woodley’s General Secretary, Steve Simpson, had been tweeting updates whilst in the talks at Acas.
Meanwhile it is the passengers who suffer and the budget airlines who profit from the strikes. Rival airlines have seen their bookings soar over the past few weeks as passengers shun British Airways. It’s bad news for a company that reported record losses this year. Bad news for passengers too who will be wondering whether the Icelandic volcano will halt their holiday or the striking cabin crews..
If you are planning to travel to Australia over the next few weeks then you are advised to contact your travel agent or airline company direct before you set off for the airport. Even if your flight is not booked with BA, it’s best to check. Those travellers who are affected will be offered alternative flights by British Airways, alternative routes or refunds. As for booked accommodation, read the small print in your travel insurance and hope that you are covered!
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