British Airways gives employees a generous 13% salary increase following reductions during the Covid-19 pandemic

British Airways employees have successfully negotiated a significant pay increase of over 13%, reversing the pay cuts that were implemented during the height of the pandemic. Approximately 24,000 workers at the airline will receive a 13.1% pay rise over an 18-month period, along with a one-off payment of £1,000. This deal, facilitated by the Unite union, excludes pilots and management, and aims to rectify the “fire and rehire” tactics applied by British Airways during the pandemic which resulted in reduced pay for many workers.

The agreement also ensures the possibility of further pay increases and ensures that no staff member will receive a lower rate of pay than they did in 2020. Unite general secretary Sharon Graham expressed satisfaction with the outcome, stating, “This substantial pay increase is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our union representatives and officers who engaged in detailed negotiations. It demonstrates that our unwavering focus on our members’ jobs, pay, and working conditions is delivering financial benefits for workers.”

Additionally, Unite negotiated “milestone reviews” and additional pay rises for specific groups of employees within the company. This development occurs amidst chaos in the European airline industry, with strikes and walkouts causing a surge in flight delays. Air traffic controllers’ strikes in France have led to congestion in European airspace, resulting in thousands of flight cancellations by budget carriers Ryanair and easyJet. British Airways narrowly avoided disruption due to a cancellation of industrial action by ground handlers at ASC, Menzies Aviation, and GGS. Furthermore, strikes by baggage handlers at London Gatwick, employed by easyJet, have been suspended after Unite received an improved pay offer.

No comment has been provided by British Airways at this time.