British Airways set to reverse axing of Gatwick flights

British Airways is set to reverse its decision to can short-haul flights at Gatwick, just two weeks after it announced its plans amid a battle with pilots.

The IAG-owned airline recently revealed plans to set up a new budget carrier based at London’s second airport in a bid to make such flights profitable.

But the pilots union Balpa rejected the plans, saying it would have seen some of its members paid less than their easyJet counterparts.

That led to BA confirming it would scrap all of its short-haul operations at Gatwick, with the exception of some domestic long-haul feeder services, with the airline looking at alternative uses for its slots.

However, on Monday the Telegraph reported that Balpa was prepared to accept a new pay deal, having reopened talks last week.

The union had supported BA’s initial proposals on the understanding that flights at Gatwick would otherwise be scrapped, before pilots revolted when it came to the ballot.

According to the Telegraph, an announcement from British Airways was imminent on Monday, with Balpa surveying pilots to gauge support for the rehashed plan.

“Our short-haul operation at Gatwick was consistently unprofitable and we were clear that we could not restart short-haul flights unless we were able to establish a competitive platform,” a spokesperson for BA said.

“While we have been actively pursuing alternative uses for our slots, last week Balpa asked us to resume discussions.

“These talks were constructive, addressed key concerns and have secured the efficiencies required.”