Can I catch my flight from Heathrow during a strike?

Simon Calder answers your question on the latest industrial action and what’s the best tipping practice in Australia

Security officers at the airport are set to walk out at the beginning of April (Simon Calder)

Q I am due to fly to South Africa on 8 April from London Heathrow Terminal 5. I understand that security staff are going on strike. The airport says it will remain “open and operational” – what do they mean? And do you expect cancellations?

Kevin S

A The stress involved in being a post-pandemic traveller seems boundless. On 31 March, if there is no progress in negotiations, 1,400 members of the Unite union working as security officers at Heathrow Terminal 5 will walk out in a pay dispute. The strike will continue until Easter Sunday, 9 April. It is aimed squarely at the Easter holiday getaway on British Airways, which uses the terminal for most of its flights,