British Airways cabin crew have entered the fourth day of a five-day strike after talks broke down again yesterday.
The airline and the Unite union have failed to reach an agreement over jobs, pay and working conditions.
Another five days of strike action are due to start on Saturday – the third block of industrial action since the row broke out.
BA said it was prepared for the next period of walk-outs and plans to fly more than 75% of customers who have booked flights.
With the World Cup starting next week, it also assured customers that it expects to operate all flights to South Africa.
But the England World Cup squad have opted to fly to Johannesburg with rival Virgin Atlantic.
A specially chartered plane leaves Heathrow this evening arriving tomorrow morning ready for the kick-off of the 2010 FIFA World Cup.
In true Virgin style, the airline has customised the in-flight entertainment to include football-themed programmes to “entertain and hopefully inspire” the players.
The onboard menu has also been tailored specifically to manager Fabio Capello’s strict dietary requirements.
Alex Horne, general secretary of the FA, said: “The FA is delighted that England will start their World Cup campaign in such a professional manner with Sir Richard Branson and Virgin Atlantic.â€
By Bev Fearis
