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British Airways pilots call off second September strike

A planned strike by British Airways’ pilots on September 27 has been called off.

The British Airline Pilots Association (Balpa) said it was time for a “period of reflection” following the two days of strikes which took place earlier this month.

The union said it hopes BA will now “negotiate seriously” with its members.

Pilots took industrial action on September 9 and 10 in a dispute over pay which led to the cancellation of 1,700 flights.

Up to 900 BA flights affecting 120,000 passengers were expected to be cancelled on September 27 if the strike went ahead.


More: Comment: BA and Balpa need to change course

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A statement from Balpa said: “The strikes on 9th and 10th September had demonstrated the anger and resolve of pilots. It was now time for a period of reflection before the dispute escalates further and irreparable damage is done to the brand.

“Balpa hopes BA will now change its approach and negotiate seriously with a view to ending this dispute.”

General secretary, Brian Strutton, added: “Someone has to take the initiative to sort out this dispute and with no sign of that from BA the pilots have decided to take the responsible course. In a genuine attempt at establishing a time out for common sense to prevail, we have lifted the threat of the strike on the 27th September.

“BA passengers rightly expect BA and its pilots to resolve their issues without disruption and now is the time for cool heads and pragmatism to be brought to bear. I hope BA and its owner IAG show as much responsibility as the pilots.”

The union said if BA refuses meaningful new negotiations, it would consider further strike dates.

BA said: “We have just received this news. We are considering the implications and we will give updates in due course.”

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