This looks like the crucial bit as far as BASSA/Unite are concerned. Crucial as in 'cross or crux'. And what becomes of those who do not accept? Has the Union commented?
British Airways has made a new offer to Unite today in a fresh attempt to end the current dispute.
The offer includes two changes that are intended to address cabin crew concerns about their future earnings:- a new top-up payment is being offered to guarantee that existing crew will not lose out on route allowances when newly-recruited crew begin flying in the autumn;
- a proposal to increase staffing levels on some flights, funded by a reduction in crew allowances, has been withdrawn.
The offer also includes two years of guaranteed rises in basic salary from February 2011 in addition to annual increment pay increases.
The new top-up payment means all crew will receive a guaranteed minimum amount of variable pay, irrespective of the routes they fly.
Crew who are not members of Unite are being invited to accept the offer on an individual basis. Members of Unite who want to accept the offer are being urged to express their views to the union.
Bill Francis, British Airways’ head of cabin crew, said: “We have changed our offer in line with feedback we have received from crew and we genuinely believe that it can end this dispute – which is what the vast majority of crew and our customers want.”
The new proposal continues to provide existing crew with assurances about their future. These include:- A firm commitment that crew can keep their current pay and conditions
- An assurance that promotions and part time contracts within their current fleet will be on existing terms and conditions
- An assurance that Heathrow crew can transfer between Worldwide and Euro Fleet on current terms and conditions
- A fair share of routes and access to new aircraft across all fleets
- A commitment to look for opportunities for growth at Gatwick.