Yes I agree the Union may have handled things better - however in my opinion the biggest failing in all of this is the way that BA have communicated the need for change to their employees - that is the massive failure through all of this. We have a constantly changing Head of IFCE/Cabin Services - call it what you like - and because of that constant change there is no consistency in the messages we are given. If I where on the Board of BA I wold be asking how can we alienate such a massive part of our workforce in what is perceived by most to be the most important customer facing role in the company.
Change management - or lack of it - that is the massive failing here
This is uncontroversial and has a large element of truth to it.
If the union could communicate in as clear a manner as you have here, I doubt there would be a strike at present. It does however take two to tango, so to speak.