Calling for a strike just as the other long-hauls are about to move in on the cushy airport you've had all to yourselves for years? Your competitors must be rubbing their hands with glee - I bet they can't believe their luck. They'll be on their knees begging for this to get nasty. BA and BALPA collectively pushing the self-destruct button just at the point when they need unity and reinforcement.
BA's had it easy for a long time. It's about to find out what real competition's all about.