Having looked superficially at the BA proposal, I feel that there is quite a lot in there that could be worked to our advantage.
Reduction in Crew Complements.
Can't really complain. Yes we will work harder, but under today's climate that is the least we can expect. By agreeing to reduce crew, we give BA a large part of what they want, and in return it gives us some negotiating power (ie. Fixed monthly duty payment).
Increase in ground based productivity at base and downroute.
Contrary to popular opinion on other forums, I don't think this means working on checkin.
The proposals could be tweaked so that we work longer days, in exchange for keeping days off (aka the Pilots!)
Disruption Agreement
No real hardship there so should be agreed.
A separate mixed fleet heathrow
The sticking point. However I have strong suspicions that this
could be a bluff by the company. Give them the other stuff, they may forego New Fleet - it's already dwindled to only 500 starters.
UNITE Proposal
We will have to concede the payfreeze (as we offered it up!) and it will have to be permanent. Loans just aren't on the agenda.
Fixed Monthly Duty Payment
This has been written in the Package side of the deal, so the company have to offer it as a benefit. Huge negotiating tool - give them the crew complement and wack this up as high as possible.
All in all, I think there could be a win-win deal in there. The BASSA counter-proposal that simply introduces MORE factors into the equation is ridiculous.
Discuss....