British Airways has confirmed it is working with unions on proposals for a short-haul operation from Gatwick airport.
But the UK’s national flag carrier said it would not comment further on reports that it was to set up a separate low-cost subsidiary for European and domestic flights from the Sussex airport to compete with budget airlines.
The Independent reported that BA has told unions a ‘BA Lite’ operation – which has been repeatedly discussed by the carrier – is “essential” if it wants to return to Gatwick profitably and at scale.
BA has mothballed its Gatwick short-haul network since Covid first hit, but some long-haul flights have resumed.
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According to the Independent, BA’s recently-appointed chief executive Sean Doyle has decided to press ahead with plans to cut costs and make BA more competitive with easyJet as furlough comes to an end.
BA reportedly plans to use the same staff, aircraft and slots as existed in March 2020 for a new, separate airline.
The name British Airways Express, mirroring sister IAG airline Iberia’s Iberia Express, was been reported as likely for the short-haul operation, which could begin from Easter 2022.
A BA spokesperson said: “We are working with our unions on proposals for a short-haul operation at Gatwick. We are not prepared to comment further while this process continues.”