Travel buyers have backed British Airways' handling of its long-running industrial dispute with cabin crew.
At the Institute of Travel and Meetings annual conference in London today (May 12) the airline's director of sales and marketing, Richard Tams, was describing BA's contingency plan during a Question Time session moderated by BBC Radio 4 presenter, John Humphries.
The veteran journalist suggested to Tams that business travellers might eventually turn their backs on the national carrier because of uncertainty created by the 20-day strike scheduled to begin on May 18.
But in an unprompted show of solidarity, AstraZeneca's global travel buyer Caroline Strachan, said BA, and its chief executive Willie Walsh, had acted correctly throughout the dispute.
"I think British Airways has managed the situation very well. Travel will continue during the proposed strike dates, and that is a powerful message, especially for the striking members of the union," she said.
Surprised by the public proclamation of support, Humphries asked the 450-strong audience if they agreed BA has been right in its battle with staff.
A show of hands confirmed the airline had unanimous backing. Only a tiny minority said Walsh should ease his tough stance going forward.