‘I felt shame’: former BA worker locked in legal battle after losing job of 30 years
Cabin crew worker was among thousands of staff laid off during pandemic in what MPs called a ‘national disgrace’ During a 30-year career as a member of British Airways’ cabin crew, Tess De Mello took pride in a job well done, saying she regularly went above and beyond to make passengers more comfortable. To her, the role was more than just employment – it was part of her identity. “I took pride,”…
Tess De Mello, a former British Airways cabin crew worker, is embroiled in a legal battle after losing her 30-year job during the pandemic. De Mello was among thousands of employees laid off as British Airways sought to cut costs amid economic pressures. The airline issued redundancy notices to 10,000 staff members, with the Unite union accusing the company of a "fire-and-rehire" approach that resulted in pay cuts and demotions for those who remained.
De Mello, who took pride in her role as a cabin crew member, felt immense shame and fear of judgment from colleagues after her dismissal. She struggled with the thought of being seen as having done something wrong. BA offered the remaining cabin crew a 20% pay cut, which led to a legal dispute. De Mello sought clarification of her exact salary upon rehire, leading to her claim of unfair dismissal.
The employment tribunal found against her and her former colleague, who are now appealing the ruling. The case could have significant implications for the aviation sector, as it may allow other part-time workers to claim full-time holiday entitlement, potentially causing airlines to face substantial financial losses.
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