Gatwick workers set to strike for five days next month
Ilaria Grasso MacolaHolidaymakers flying from Gatwick this summer should prepare for delays and disruption after staff confirmed they would walk out over pay in mid-July.
The Union unite announced around 300 workers are set to walk out between 12 and 14 July as well as 19 and 21 July, with further industrial action scheduled if the disputes are not resolved.
The strike will involve 100 baggage security screeners employed by ICTS as well as 200 Wilson James workers who provide special assistance to passengers.
“These workers undertake incredibly demanding roles at one of the UK’s busiest airports,” said Unite general secretary Sharon Graham. “They are simply seeking a fair day’s pay.
“ICTS and Wilson James are wealthy companies and can well afford to put forward acceptable pay offers.
The industrial action comes as 100 HGV drivers and warehouse workers providing easyJet’s onboard catering at Gatwick are being balloted for strike action over pay as well.
“The employers in these disputes are responsible for any disruption caused to passengers at Gatwick,” added regional officer Dominic Rothwell. “These disputes could be easily resolved if reasonable offers are put forward.
“There is still time to avoid industrial action, but that will require these companies to table deals that are acceptable to our members.”
A London Gatwick spokesperson said: “We are working with our suppliers to avoid any impacts and we expect to operate a normal summer holiday flight schedule for our airlines and passengers on these dates.
"Of course, we hope Wilson James, ICTS and their union can reach a resolution before then."
Earlier on Friday (28 June), Gatwick made the headlines after more than 20 flights were cancelled and many more were delayed after the runway was closed due to the brakes of a British Airways’ plane overheating.
Sign up for weekday travel news and analysis straight to your inbox
Ilaria Grasso Macola
Supplier Directory
Find contacts for 260+ travel suppliers. Type name, company or destination.
Editor's pick
Recommended For You
Latest travel jobs
Self-employed Holiday Sales Consultants
Junior Africa Sales Consultant
Travel Consultant - Barrhead, Newtownabbey
Competitions
Upcoming events
Place of registration: England and Wales.
Company number 08723341.
Registered address: 6th Floor, 2 London Wall Place, London EC2Y 5AU
