A strike that had been planned for Monday, August 5, at London’s Heathrow Airport has been called off, although a strike could still take place on August 6.
In its latest statement Heathrow said that Unite, the union representing workers involved in the proposed strike, has postponed any action on August 5, although a strike is still scheduled for August 6. Both Heathrow and Unite have said that talks will take place on Monday with the hope of averting a strike on Tuesday.
— Heathrow Airport (@HeathrowAirport) August 4, 2019
“Airlines may choose to reinstate impacted flights,” Heathrow said in a written statement.
British Airways reports that it will be reinstating any flights that were cancelled as part of the proposed strike for August 5. Fast Track and The First Wing will be open as usual Monday, and customers will be able to carry onboard their full hand baggage allowance.
For August 6, British Airways says that the number of security lanes will be reduced, and Fast Track and The First Wing will be closed, likely leading to longer than usual wait times at security. Additionally, customers will only be allowed one small personal item of hand baggage that can fit under the seat in front of them, so any additional hand baggage must be checked.
“We are expecting to transport more checked bags than usual, so where possible, please consolidate your belongings, and keep the number of checked bags to a minimum,” the airline said. “Please also ensure that your checked baggage remains within your weight allowance.”
A number of airlines have also issued change waivers due to the proposed strike.
Customers set to fly on United Airlines through August 6 can rebook with now change fee or difference in fare for new United flights departing on or before August 13, as long as travel is rescheduled in the originally ticketed cabin (any fare class) and between the original city pair.
Delta is allowing customers scheduled to travel through August 6 to rebook through August 9, with the new ticket to be issued on or before that date.
American Airlines customers scheduled to travel through August 6 can rebook through August 12 between the same city pair in the same cabin (or pay the difference).
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