Travelers to the UK can expect significant flight disruptions if British Airways cabin crew moves forward with its plans for a series of four five-day strikes. Earlier this week the union representing more than 10,000 British Airways employees announced its members will strike May 18-22, May 24-28, May 30-June 3, and June 5-9.  

Each strike is separated by a one-day return to work, a 24-hour period in which cabin crew will be at best distracted, at worst inefficient and cranky.

Until contract negotiations are settled, travelers are advised to consider alternate airlines, particularly for flights within the UK. Long-haul flights, especially those from abroad to the UK, will get staffing priority, but could still experience significant delays and cancellations.