Originally Posted by Top Bunk
ATC have the answer to that in their hands, they should just tell BA to enter the runway, taxi down to a suitable exit and vacate and go the the back of the queue for take off..... simples.
We do. ATC should be pro-active knowing that BA have their load issues and find out as early as possible if they will be ready at the runway. If there is any doubt, ATC should move the offending flight out of the main flow of traffic until they are ready. We shouldn't put them in the position of having to do the LMC whilst moving just because a line has formed behind them. Likewise, the crew should inform ATC if they believe there will be a delay to them being ready in good time so that another plan can be formulated. It all comes under professionalism.