Thousands of air passengers could have their travel plans disrupted next month after British Airways pilots announced three strikes over pay.
Members of the BALPA union will walk out on the 9th, 10th and 27th of September, after deciding the firm's recent offer wouldn't win the support of "anywhere near" a majority of pilots.
In a statement, the union said: "In what is British Airways’ centenary year, this will be the very first time its pilots will go on strike. They do so as a last resort and with enormous frustration at the way the business is now being run.
"Our ballot is valid until January, and more dates may be announced until such time as this matter is resolved."
British Airways, meanwhile, called the action "unacceptable" and "unjustifiable" - insisting its proposed 11.5% rise over three years is fair.
The company said: "We are extremely sorry that after many months of negotiations, based on a very fair offer, BALPA has decided on this reckless course of action.
"We continue to pursue every avenue to find a solution to avoid industrial action and protect our customers' travel plans."
Separately, Ryanair pilots with BALPA have taken part in two strike days this week as part of a wide-ranging dispute over pay and other issues.
The union said it hopes the action is a "wake-up call" to the airline.
Similar action planned by Irish-based Ryanair pilots was called off after the company was granted a High Court injunction here to prevent the strike.
