Large numbers of workers at another UK airport have backed strike action in a dispute over pay. It is the latest blow for passengers already hit by a summer of delays and cancellations.
Strikes at Prestwick Airport in Scotland could start on Friday, August 5 and will continue over four weeks on every Sunday, Monday, Wednesday and Friday. The Unite union says the dispute centres on wage increases, shift allowances and pay levels for new employees.
More than 80 employees including airport security, firefighters, airfield operators, ground crew, ground handling, cargo, customer services staff and cleaners are represented by the Unite union. Ryanair is the main carrier operating out of the airport.
The union called for a “significant” wage increase to cope with record levels of inflation, but employers have offered between four per cent and 6.5 per cent.
Sharon Graham, Unite general secretary, said: “Prestwick airport management have one last chance before their rock bottom pay offer results in strike action. Our members deserve the public’s support in this battle, and we will fully support them in their fight for better jobs, pay and conditions.”
Siobhan McCready, Unite industrial officer, added: “Unite’s members have overwhelmingly backed strike action because they are angry and frustrated. Talks are set to reconvene with Prestwick Airport management this week (Thursday) but we are not hopeful.”
Meanwhile, a three-day strike by aircraft-refuelling workers at Heathrow, due to start at 5am today (July 21) and continue until Sunday, has been suspended following talks at the conciliation service ACAS. Workers, employed by Aviation Fuel Services (AFS) and responsible for refuelling many airlines at the UK's biggest airport.
They had rejected a 10 per cent pay offer, but the strike was called off after AFS made a new offer that will now be put to affected workers.
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