British Airways (BA) chief executive Willie Walsh has asked the company’s 40,000 employees to work for nothing in a desperate bid to save cash.
As part of what the airline calls its “fight for survival”, last month it launched its Business Response Scheme (BRS) under which staff can take one month’s unpaid leave, or switch to part-time contracts. According to BA, 1,000 employees have already volunteered to take part.
The company has now extended the scheme to make it more flexible and minimise the financial impact on individuals. This will allow staff to opt for one-week blocks of unpaid leave or unpaid work, with salary deductions spread over three to six months “wherever possible”.
Walsh made his plea in the company’s staff magazine. He said: “Many of you from across the business are stepping up to help the company. Other people have told me that they want to play their part, but need more flexible options.”
“I am pleased to be able to respond with the launch of a new package of choices, designed to allow everyone to do something.”
“I am looking for every single part of the company to take part in this cash-effective way of helping the company’s survival plan. It really counts.”
Last month Walsh and chief financial officer Keith Williams announced they would work for nothing for the month of July. According to reports Walsh’s salary for the month is £61,000.