Staff Memo at BA
Below is the notice sent to all BA staff this morning.
Franchise Announcement
British Airways is to end its franchise agreements with both GB Airways and Loganair.
From March 2008 BA plans to start services on some of the routes operated under the GB Airways franchise, while British Airways’ code will be placed on Loganair flights when that franchise ends on October 25, 2008.
Chief executive Willie Walsh said: “UK franchises have outlived their purpose for British Airways. easyJet has made an offer to buy GB Airways and this has enabled us to end the franchise agreement two years early. We have an option to buy GB Airways but we rejected it. We have a significant base at Gatwick and our focus will be on maintaining and developing it as an integral part of our business.
“Regrettably the loss of ground handling activity for GB Airways at Gatwick will mean a reduction in staff numbers. We want to achieve these reductions using voluntary means and will be discussing this will the trade unions.”
There will be a transition period until March 29, 2008 during which GB Airways will continue to operate as BA’s franchise partner on their existing network to destinations in Europe and North Africa.
British Airways is committed to ensuring a smooth transition for passengers during this period. Customers will be able to rebook onto easyJet or get a refund.