BRITISH AIRWAYS says it is exploring "all options" to help it cope with the impact of a planned 12-day strike by cabin crew over the Christmas period. Up to 1 million passengers face the prospect of having journeys cancelled during the action by Unite members. BA is trying to rework flight schedules but is also pondering legal action such as an injunction to stop the walkout. Cabin crew voted 9 to 1 in favor of the strike over job cuts and staffing levels. The strike is scheduled to take place from December 22 thru January 2. BA is insisting it will not climb down on its decision to reduce cabin crew numbers, which is at the heart of the dispute. The Unite union is also adopting a tough stance, calling for talks to resolve the dispute but threatening another round of strikes unless BA backs down. BA has offered refunds to passengers grounded by the strike, but that is likely to come at an immense cost to the company. British media also reported today that rival Airlines are already cashing in on the planned strike, with most of them raising ticket prices signficantly. The cheapest flight from London to New York found is on AMERICAN AIRLINES at £1,485 roundtrip. The same route cost £1,517 with VIRGIN ATLANTIC, £3,087 with CONTINENTAL AIRLINES and £3,222 with UNITED AIRLINES, all of which are significantly up on the usual fares.
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