British Airways News
American-BA-Iberia sign strategic alliance
American Airlines, British Airways and Spanish flag-carrier Iberia have signed a long-awaited strategic alliance that will see them cooperate on flights between Europe and North America. The deal had been vigorously opposed by transatlantic rival Virgin Atlantic, which claimed it would create a “monster monopoly”.
International Airlines Group names board
Members of the board of directors of International Airlines Group - the holding company formed by the merger of British Airways and Iberia - have been appointed. While many of the new board come from the existing leadership of the partner airlines, John Snow, the former US Treasury secretary, is among the most notable new faces.
Iberia backs BA over pension deficit
Iberia has approved plans put forward by British Airways to alleviate its £3.7 billion pension deficit, bringing a proposed merger between the two one step closer to fruition. The deficit was the last major stumbling block in the process, with the deal now expected to close in November.
British Airways announces new route to Japan
British Airways has announced the launch of a new route to Haneda in Japan in a push to open up the domestic Japanese market to UK travellers.
British Airways rejigs long-haul network
British Airways has confirmed a series of changes to its long-haul offering as it battles to return to profitability. Among the headline changes is the launch of a new service to Haneda in Japan, with the British flag-carrier seeking to open the domestic market to UK travellers.
BA chief warns over Middle East threat
British Airways chief executive Willie Walsh has warned European airlines not to underestimate the threat posed by growing carriers in the Middle East. In an address to the European Aviation Club Mr Walsh said rivals had the potential to revolutionise long-haul travel over the coming decade.
BA strikes deal with ground staff
British Airways ground staff based at Heathrow have voted to accept the latest contract offer from the airline, concluding negotiations begun in 2009. The dispute had centred on working conditions and employment evels at the airport, with staff represented by the GMB and Unite unions.
World’s largest aviation caterer to serve halal-only dishes
The world’s largest independent airline caterer has announced plans to make most of its dishes halal compliant. GateGourmet, which provides inflight meals for the likes of Cathay Pacific and British Airways, says it wants to standardise production based on cost rather than religious grounds.
BA aims to create super-airline
British Airways and Iberia have drawn up a shopping list of up to 12 airlines which they hope to buy or merge with once their own tie-up has been completed. Airlines in their sights include Qantas, South African Airways, Finnair and AirAsia in a plan that would create the world’s largest airline.
British Airways traffic “steady” despite strike fears
British Airways passenger figures held steady in the peak month of August despite fears that the airline’s ongoing cabin crew dispute could cause widespread travel disruption. The airline carried 3,154,000 passengers in August 2010, only 3,000 shy of the 3,157,000 in August 2009.
Unite considers strikes over ‘bullying’
Unite has mooted the possibility of further strike action over the Christmas period as part of an ongoing dispute with British Airways. Allegations of bullying during previous strikes have prompted the latest call, with cabin crew scheduled to meet early next week to discuss their next move.
British Airways CEO addresses The Caribbean on autumn visit to the region
Willie Walsh, chief executive of British Airways, is to give the keynote address at the Caribbean Tourism Organisation (CTO) leadership strategy conference in Barbados between October 9-12th.