The proposed merger between BA and Qantas spells job losses for the travel sector, according to recruiters.

Gail Kenny, managing director at travel recruiter Gail Kenny Executive Search, told Recruiter: “Any airline merger is highly likely to result in job losses and this one is no different. BA has been shedding staff with its voluntary redundancy programme. More redundancies are likely to follow on a non-voluntary basis if the proposed merger with Qantas is agreed.”

John Tolmie, managing director at travel staffing firm AA Appointments, adds: “If two of the biggest airlines in the world merge then there is bound to be a great deal of consolidation which, unfortunately, is likely to result in job losses. Both operate out of Heathrow, with Heathrow being BA’s main hub, so chances are the losses will be seen there.”