Half-term airport strikes warning in pay dispute

Further strikes have been announced at Leeds Bradford Airport (LBA), with industrial action planned for October half-term.

Almost 130 Unite members, including air traffic control workers, customer experience staff, security staff and cleaners, could walk out over pay between 16 and 18 October, with action also planned for 23 October to 2 November.

The union said the airport was expected to experience a shutdown on the strike days, "with so many essential workers striking".

But an LBA spokesperson said it hoped to run "near-normal operations" during the periods of industrial action.

According to Unite, workers at LBA are paid less than those doing the same roles at Newcastle Airport.

It said a starter air traffic controller at LBA earned about £34,000, while the same role at Newcastle was paid £55,000.

Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said: "It is wrong that workers at Leeds Bradford Airport are paid far less than those doing the same job at another nearby airport.

"These are essential workers who play a vital role in ensuring the smooth running of the airport and the safety of passengers and deserve fair pay."

The union confirmed hourly paid staff at the airport had received an offer and were currently being balloted on it.

However, it said air traffic controllers had not received any offer.

In a statement, LBA said it had made a "fair and responsible offer that is significantly above inflation".

"We remain committed to working with Unite and our colleagues to reach a fair resolution through meaningful discussion with the remaining area," it said.

"These aggressive tactics serve no purpose and only create uncertainty for the hardworking customers of Leeds Bradford Airport who are looking forward to enjoying time away with family and friends during the upcoming half-term break."

Unite regional officer Neil Whitaker said: "We appreciate those travelling to and from Leeds Bradford Airport will be concerned to hear that there are further strike dates, but the situation is completely the fault of the airport's management.

"It can end this dispute, but that relies on it coming back to the table with a fair deal for our members."

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