British Airways (BA) has cancelled flights to South Africa pending a strike by cabin crew, it said on Friday.
British Airways South Africa general manager Lin Glass said no flights from London to South Africa would be available on January 30 and 31. Flights from South Africa to London on February 2 and 3 would also be affected.
”The cancellations of the flights follow a planned strike by the cabin-crew branch of the United Kingdom Transport and General Workers’ Union.
Glass said passengers who were scheduled to fly on the above dates could claim a full refund, rebook the flight at a later date or book with another airline.
”We are deeply sorry that our customers’ travel plans are being affected by this strike,” said Glass.
Negotiations with the union are being conducted. Domestic and regional flights in South Africa operated by British Airways partner Comair will not be affected.
On Thursday, spokesperson for BA in South Africa Stephen Forbes told the Mail & Guardian Online that South Africa will be inconvenienced by the upcoming strike action. ”[The strike] will affect South African flights in that all flights out of London Heathrow will be cancelled [for its duration],” he said
BA’s stewards and stewardesses are protesting over sick leave, pay and staffing conditions. Unions have warned that there will be two more three-day work stoppages in February if the dispute remains unresolved.
Forbes said BA is still trying to reach negotiated settlements with its striking crew members.
”The airline remains committed to pursuit of a negotiated settlement before next Tuesday but wants customers to have early warning of its flying schedule to allow sufficient time for alternative travel arrangements to be made,” a statement from the airline said.
Customers who want to re-book their flights can call British Airways on 011 441 8600. — Sapa