Service workers at Charlotte Douglas International Airport have initiated a strike amidst the bustling Thanksgiving travel week to protest what they claim are inadequate wages. The strike, which began Monday morning, was authorized by employees of ABM and Prospect Airport Services in North Carolina.
The workers, contracted by American Airlines for tasks such as cleaning aircraft interiors and assisting passengers, are demanding an end to what they describe as poverty wages and a lack of respect in the workplace during the holiday season.
Many employees expressed their financial struggles, stating that their current wages are insufficient to cover basic needs like food and housing. Living paycheck to paycheck, they find it challenging to afford essential expenses such as car repairs while fulfilling crucial roles in ensuring the smooth operation of airport services.
With most workers earning between $12.50 and $19 per hour, union officials highlight that these wages fall below the living wage for a single individual without children in the Charlotte area.
Despite the strike action, Charlotte Douglas International Airport anticipates a record-breaking holiday travel season, with an estimated 1.02 million passengers departing between Thanksgiving and the following Monday.
In addition to walking off the job, striking workers plan to hold a rally and a “Strikesgiving” lunch to draw attention to their financial struggles and the challenges they face in affording a traditional Thanksgiving meal.
The union emphasizes the vital role airport service workers play in ensuring the smooth functioning of airports, yet many are forced to work multiple jobs to make ends meet despite the profits major corporations generate.
Both ABM and Prospect Airport Services have acknowledged the seriousness of the strike during the busy holiday travel period and have expressed intentions to mitigate disruptions caused by the demonstrations.
While ABM appreciates the dedication of its team members in maintaining clean and healthy spaces, Prospect Airport Services recognizes the gravity of the situation and the impact it may have on holiday travelers.
