Almost 130 workers at Leeds Bradford Airport are set to escalate strike action, threatening a potential airport ‘shutdown’ during the busy October half-term period.
The workers, who are members of the union Unite, include air traffic controllers, security staff, cleaners and customer experience staff.
They plan to strike from this Friday (16 October) to Sunday (18 October), followed by a second round of industrial action from 23 October to 2 November, coinciding with the school half-term in England and Wales.
The union warned that the airport could be forced to shut if the strikes go ahead, as air traffic controllers would be unable to facilitate flights taking off and landing.
The dispute centres on pay, with workers seeking parity with staff at Newcastle Airport. The union said a starter air traffic controller at Leeds Bradford earns around £34,000, compared with £55,000 for the same role at Newcastle, despite Newcastle having a lower cost of living.
Unite reported that many hourly paid staff are earning just above the minimum wage, leaving them struggling with rising living costs. Hourly paid workers have received a pay offer and are currently being balloted on it, but air traffic controllers have yet to receive an offer.
Unite said that even if air traffic controllers are the only group to continue striking, the airport could still face a shutdown.
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. Unite will always fully back our members taking action at Leeds Bradford Airport.”
Regional Officer Neil Whitaker added: “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.”
