BA has asked the CAA if it can use the short-haul Airbus A320 and 321s, crewed by Qatar Airways, during the planned two-week strike, which is scheduled to run until July 16. A CAA spokesperson told TTG on Friday morning that the application was “still being considered”.

The CAA added: “Under European regulations, specific approval is required for an EU airline, such as BA, to wet lease aircraft from an airline based outside of Europe.

“The UK Department for Transport will approve or reject the application taking into account advice from the CAA. We can confirm we have so far received a number of comments on the application, which will be taken into consideration.”

BA added: “We are looking at a range of options and are speaking with a number of airlines, including Qatar.”

The airline said it would operate “the vast majority” of Heathrow flights, but admitted: “We will merge a very small number of Heathrow services, and all affected customers are being contacted in advance and will be rebooked to alternative flights.”

A full schedule would operate from Gatwick and London City airports, it said.

Cabin crew from BA’s Mixed Fleet staff, who are on lower paid contracts than longer-serving flight attendants, are striking over pay levels.

Qatar Airways owns 20% of BA parent company IAG. Its short-haul fleet is currently under-utilised due to the dispute between Qatar and its neighbouring countries.