British Airways Wins Court Ruling Against Cabin Crew Strike

It now appears that Mrs Justice Cox has agreed with British Airways that the Unite union has balloted its members correctly. British Airways lawyers have complained that Unite has breached industrial relations laws by including members of staff that no longer work for the airline.

British Airways went on to say in a statement that they are delighted for their customers that the threat of a Christmas strike has been lifted by the court. It is a decision that will be welcomed by thousands of families across the UK and the whole world. There was never any need for a strike, and thus, British Airways hopes that Unite will take this opportunity to reflect before deciding its next steps. The airline says that the public will want them to do the same.

The carrier said that it has become very clear that their customers do not believe that old style trade union militancy is relevant to their efforts to move British Airways back towards profitability. Financial success is essential to build the kind of business that their customers want and provide long term opportunities to their staff.

British Airway’s QC, Bruce Carr, said that the 12 day strike would deprive literally millions of people of a happy Christmas. He went on to tell the High Court in London that British Airways has therefore brought this action to protect its passengers against these unlawful actions.

Despite this court action, British Airways chief executive, Willie Walsh, has still recently held his first meeting with the joint leaders of the Unite union since talks broke down last week. Before meeting with Willie Walsh, Unite leader Tony Woodley said that last Friday they offered a course of peace. Suspend the imposition and the strike will be off, he noted, adding that he could not be any clearer than that.