“Positive” talks between British Airways chairman Keith Williams and United general secretary Len McCluskey appear to have bought resolution in the long-running cabin crew dispute incrementally closer.

The pair met, along with cabin crew representatives, earlier, to discuss a way forward from the two-year deadlock.

The dispute started in 2009 over cost-cutting at the British flag-carrier but has since developed into a row over travel concessions taken away from cabin crew who went on strike earlier in the dispute.

Disciplinary action against Unite members also remains on the agenda.

United has again balloted members over the possibility of industrial action.

The current strike ballot mandate given by cabin crew means industrial action must be announced by April 15th.

However, following recent meetings, both parties accepted strike action at this time would severely undermine any attempt at a genuine settlement.

Accordingly, British Airways has granted an extension of 28 days to the union.

“British Airways and the union have embarked already on a process of co-operation building, assisted by a highly-regarded external company,” read a Unite statement.

“It is hoped that this continuing process will help develop and strengthen trust.”

A variety of meetings will now take place, United added.