BA strike deal 'touch and go'

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Talks between the Unite union and the airline are continuing in a bid to break a long-running row over jobs, pay and working practices.

The TUC, which is chairing the negotiations, had set a deadline of close of play on Tuesday, but this was extended to noon on Wednesday.

Sources close to the talks had said they were not optimistic of reaching an agreement to head off industrial action, but news of the extension raised hopes that a deal could still be reached.

One source said it was "touch and go" whether an agreement could finally be reached.

Unite will have to give seven days' notice of any industrial action although the union has ruled out any strikes over Easter.

The union offered a 2.6% pay cut last year and it is understood there have been suggestions that could be increased, as well as a two-year pay freeze, under moves to save more than £60 million.

BA reduced the number of cabin crew on flights under cost-saving measures and chief executive Willie Walsh made it clear the changes would not be reversed.

The union has until next Monday March 15 to announce industrial action, which would threaten travel chaos for passengers.

BA maintains it has 1,000 volunteer staff ready to work as cabin crew in the coming weeks if a strike goes ahead. Mr Walsh also revealed BA will hire 23 fully crewed planes from charter companies to help run flights from Heathrow in the event of industrial action.