Security teams at a popular regional airport have threatened to walkout in a row over pay. GMB union members at Leeds Bradford Airport will walk out at the end of August, putting the travel plans of thousands of passengers at risk.
The union is demanding an immediate pay increase for hourly-paid members and claimed the recent implementation of performance-related bonuses did not address the cost of living crisis. Jet2, Ryanair and TUI are among the airlines operating from the airport.
Rachel Dix, GMB organiser, said: “Our members have been incredibly patient but the discretionary performance-related bonuses that have been offered are not trusted, too late in the day and are no substitute for an hourly pay increase. They are not prepared to wait any longer for the respect and remuneration they deserve from their employer, but they are genuinely open to constructive negotiation that will pave the way to a satisfactory resolution.”
“All they are asking for is a wage which will afford them a decent standard of living."
The airport responded by claiming it had increased total pay of frontline security staff by 11 per cent since February with more highly-qualified staff receiving a 16 per cent rise, including a company performance-related payment.
Bosses also claimed that just 25 per cent of the security workforce would be involved in the walkout. Leeds Bradford Airport chief executive Vincent Hodder, said: “We are disappointed at this cynical move to industrial action before requesting any negotiations.
“Despite the damage to the aviation industry during the pandemic, we have done everything we can to increase the pay of our frontline staff. We remain committed to working with GMB and our staff to reach an agreement and thereby avoid unnecessary strike action.”
