The UK’s flagship carrier British Airways (BA) is set to be hit with a major strike as pilots have backed industrial action in a dispute over pay.

Pilots union British Airline Pilots’ Association (BALPA) has announced that 93% of the members voted in favour of a strike on a 90% turnout.

The pilots rejected a three-year pay deal worth 11.5% and are inclined to go on strike in what is expected to be a severe blow to the airline and travellers.

It comes after failed peace talks between the union and the airline.

BALPA has not given any details of the dates on which the industrial action will commence.

Meanwhile, BA has approached the High Court seeking an injunction against potential strike action.

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BALPA General Secretary Brian Strutton said: “This strong result demonstrates the resolve of BA pilots, and shows BA that it must table a sensible improved offer if a strike is to be averted. Sadly three days of ACAS talks have not moved the company’s position one iota. Settlement of this dispute is in BA’s hands.

“We do not wish to inconvenience our customers which is why we have tried to resolve this matter through negotiation starting last November – it is BA who has regrettably chosen to drag this out into the summer months.”

BA stated that its offer was fair and in line with recommendations made by other trade unions for their members working at the airline.

However, the airline maintained that it will continue to seek negotiations to resolve the matter amicably.

British Airways was quoted by The Guardian as saying: “We are very disappointed that Balpa has chosen to threaten the travel plans of thousands of our customers, over the summer holidays, with possible strike action.

“We continue to pursue every avenue to find a solution to protect our customers’ travel plans and avoid industrial action and we urge Balpa to return to talks as soon as possible.”