In an apparently preemptive move, British Airways has outlined its plans to continue operations during a cabin-crew walkout before strike dates have been announced.

In other words, they’re letting cabin crew know how they’re going to beat them before the game officially begins.

It’s a move that could work out well for the airline, as the ultimate injury isn’t work stoppage —  it’s a lack of traveler confidence, resulting in a long-term drop in sales.

In a March 3 press-release, British Airways CEO Willie Walsh wrote the airline plans to operate all flights from London City Airport, all long-haul flights and about half of the short-haul flights at Gatwick, and a “substantial proportion” of long- and short-haul flights at Heathrow.

Walsh also said the airline has trained nearly 1,000 volunteer employees as cabin crew and has arranged to secure seats from other carriers. Unite has until March 15 to announce any strike dates, and must give seven days advance notice before walkouts.

Union representatives were, as expected, disappointed by the British Airways announcement. The Guardian  quotes the union’s main negotiator, Len McCluskey, as saying "it is deeply regrettable that BA's CEO has chosen to adopt this inflammatory and confrontational stance at a time when we are engaged in meaningful talks with the company."

British Airways might not be calling for strike action, but it’s definitely calling the union’s bluff.