Air India and Jet Airways have cancelled a total of seven flights to London on Wednesday due to a nationwide general strike by several British unions, including those representing immigration and other airport staff.
While Jet cancelled two flights from Mumbai and one from Delhi, Air India cancelled four flights between London and Delhi and Amritsar, spokespersons of both the carriers said.
Both airlines have also offered free rebook facilities to passengers travelling on these flights on that day.
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“Jet Airways has advised guests travelling into U.K. on November 30 to rebook their flights to avoid any inconvenience and immigration delays at London Heathrow airport,” a statement said.
It said the Civil Aviation Authority of UK has informed all airlines that the 24-hour strike would impact the incoming flights and could result in extended delays.
Jet advised its passengers to rebook their flights to a later date between December 1 and 7.
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Air India also cancelled four flights on the same day.
These are Amritsar-Delhi-London (AI-115), London-Delhi (AI-116), Delhi-London (AI-111) and London-Delhi (AI-112).
Over a million public sector-employees of Britain, including teachers, have voted for the strike against planned pension reforms. Immigration officers at Heathrow and other UK airports would also due to join the strike action.
The UK Border Agency has been scrambling to find replacement staff for passport and immigration checks in order to keep Britain’s borders safe.
Tourist attractions, transport links, schools, colleges, libraries and funeral services are also likely to be affected, reports said.