LONDON (AP) — Tens of thousands of would-be British Airways passengers are scrambling for alternatives just before the busy spring holiday season because of a three-day strike by cabin crews.
The airline canceled more than 1,000 flights today and hurried to rebook some passsengers on other carriers, chartered planes from rival airlines and drafted volunteer crew. The airline is hoping to keep as many passengers happy as possible. But it still had to scrap more than half of its 1,950 scheduled flights over the period.
Chief Executive Willie Walsh issued a direct apology via YouTube for the walkout, the airline's first in almost 15 years, saying it was a "terrible day for BA."
The strike also risked harm to Britain's Labour government before a tough general election expected before June.
Workers are protesting a pay freeze and changes in working conditions.
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Sound:
<<CUT …029 (03/20/10)>> 00:07 "support our union"
Unnamed British Airways crew member
This British Airways crew member says the strike will continue.
<<CUT …028 (03/20/10)>> 00:10 "during this time"
Unnamed British Airways crew member
This British Airways crew member says fellow workers are sticking together.
<<CUT …027 (03/20/10)>> 00:08 "of industrial action"
Willie Walsh
British Airways Chief Executive Willie Walsh disputes union claims that "hawks" are on the British Airways board.
<<CUT …026 (03/20/10)>> 00:08 "and this union"
Tony Woodley
Unite Joint General Secretary Tony Woodley says "hawks" on the British Airways board seem to want to fight with the workers.
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