Passengers travelling through Heathrow Airport should expect disruption as continued staff striking is expected. But why are these strikes occurring, why do airport staff feel undervalued, and what will the lasting effects on the aviation industry be?
These strikes, organised by various unions representing different departments within the airport, are expected to impact both arrivals and departures, potentially causing delays for travellers.
What is the reason for these strikes?
Starting today, various airport staff will be striking over an ongoing row over what is called “deplorable action” from Heathrow airport’s management.
800 Unite staff members plan to strike from 7-14 May. By June, the union said that workers in passenger services will be outsourced. The Unite Union, representing these workers, anticipates substantial disruptions for passengers during this period.
Cuts set by aviation fuel firm AFS
The dispute comes from cuts set by aviation fuel firm AFS on the terms and conditions of new staff, including reduced pension and sickness benefits. As Heathrow changed its operations to improve customer service, it discussed with Unite the number of colleagues that would be affected.
Unite says some new measures that have been proposed involve a reduction in sickness benefits and pensions. This would affect employees recruited since January this year.
Reduction in sickness benefits and pensions
During this dispute, Unite is focused on protecting its member’s pay and conditions.
When do the strikes start?
The first wave of strikes starts with Border Force officers staging a four-day walkout, starting from now until Thursday, 2 May. Over 300 members of the Public and Commercial Services (PCS) union, stationed across terminals 2, 3, 4, and 5, are protesting changes to their working conditions.
This will mainly affect arrivals, with potential effects on passport control services.
Refuelling workers are also set to strike over the early May bank holiday weekend. Fifty refuellers employed at the airport are scheduled to walk out on Saturday, 4 May, Sunday, 5 May, and Monday, 6 May, Sky News reported.
Will the strikes affect you?
The consequences of these strikes extend to a wide range of airlines operating at Heathrow. Major companies such as Air Canada, American Airlines, United Airlines, and Virgin Atlantic, as well as others, are listed among those likely to be affected.
With nearly 800 staff members from various departments set to participate in the strikes, including passenger services, trolley operations, security, firefighters, and airside operations, the a big potential for disruption.
Saying up to date on travel details
Passengers planning to travel through Heathrow during the strike dates should prepare for longer queues and possible delays. While the airport authorities assure the public that measures are in place to manage disruptions, travellers are advised to check with their airlines for updates and allow extra time for their journeys.
Comprehensive travel insurance is also recommended to mitigate any unexpected issues stemming from the strikes.
Despite ongoing negotiations between the unions and airport management, a solution has yet to be reached, leaving travellers uncertain about the impact on their travel plans.
Passengers are advised to stay up to date and take necessary precautions to minimise inconvenience if they are travelling from Heathrow Airport.
