Let me tidy up a few misconceptions here.
- BA do not have the option to put out to tender the check in process at LHR. Major international airports at best, have a duopoly for all services such as Dispatch, Catering and check-in etc. Most of these duopolies are epitomes of price fixing. If BA were to put out to tender the check in process, it would not provide the cost control that having it 'in house' would provide.
- All this talk of minimum wage check in staff is getting a bit boring. Their wage equates to around £7/hr, which is a long way off minimum wage. Check in staff not only have the perk of staff travel, they also have the 'know-how' to use it to full effect. I have lost count how many times I've been told that my free firm will be unconfirmed to XYZ again. One never hears of C.S.A's not getting on the the CPT for the fourth year running with a firm seat. So £1000's of travel each year at the fraction of the cost. All this adds up to a basic salary that could be equated to £15-£20,000 p.a.
- Final Salary Scheme pension
Money wise, Customer Service Agents are not poorly off.