BA execs deny collusion with Virgin over fuel price fixing

A quartet of former and current British Airways PLC executives pleaded not guilty on Monday to alleged price-fixing of fuel surcharges with Virgin Atlantic Airways, denying charges that can carry prison sentences.

BA former head of sales Andrew Crawley, former commercial director Martin George, former communications head Iain Burns, and former U.K. and Ireland sales chief Alan Burnett all denied the so-called “cartel offense” in an appearance at London’s Southwark Crown Court.

Crawley has since been promoted to sales and marketing director, while the other three men no longer work for the airline.

Virgin Atlantic was granted immunity from charges after bringing the matter to the attention of the Office of Fair Trading.

In an e-mailed statement on Monday, Virgin Atlantic Chief Executive Steve Ridgeway indicated he knew about the alleged collusion.

“I apologise unreservedly for my involvement in this case,” Ridgeway said. “Although I did not have any direct contact with BA in relation to passenger fuel surcharges I regret that, on becoming aware of the discussions, I did not take steps to stop them.”

Source: The Cyprus Weekly