Following "exploratory talks" between Unite and British Airways, the deadline for a strike announcement has been delayed until May 13. A joint statement from BA and the union - itself an unusual occurrence - said talks over the past few weeks had seen "optimism" on both sides.
The new general secretary of Unite, Len McCluskey, and the new CEO of BA, Keith Williams, are committed to "seeking an honourable and fair settlement to the long running dispute", the statement said. Both parties accept that a strike announcement at this stage would "severely undermine" any attempt at a genuine settlement.
The statement continued: "It is understood by British Airways that cabin crew must feel that their concerns are being fairly dealt with, and it is recognised by the union that the management and acceptance of change is the key to lasting peace."
There were fears, however, that the legalities of the agreement could be blurred - legally, any strike must be taken within 28 days of a ballot closing, leaving Unite open to a legal challenge if it does later decide to call on staff to take part in a walk-out.