A British Airways flight from Barbados to the UK was canceled after the flight crew reportedly engaged in a drinking session the night before the scheduled departure. The incident left up to 336 passengers stranded in Bridgetown.
The flight, BA254, was due to depart on Sunday at 4:40 p.m. and arrive in the UK on Monday morning. Passengers who had booked tickets encountered some of the crew members at a resort on Saturday night. Reports from passengers describe some crew members slurring remarks such as, 'We're British Airways crew, what of it?'
According to reports, one stewardess was seen vomiting in the bar, and another steward collapsed and was taken to their room during the reported vodka and beer consumption. The airline was alerted to the events, leading to the decision to cancel the flight.
British Airways confirmed it has suspended four staff members involved in the incident and is conducting an urgent investigation. The airline stated, "We expect the highest standards of our crew, and are urgently investigating this matter."
Following the cancellation, the entire crew was stood down and sent home. Passengers are being repatriated over the following days. The four suspended crew members are understood to have returned to the UK on Tuesday.
The resort where the crew reportedly stayed is described as a honeymooners' retreat, with rooms costing approximately £500 per night. The cancellation could also impact the airline's relationship with the accommodation provider.