Strikes to Cause Disruption at Gatwick Airport

Published on: 11 May, 2025
Updated on: 13 May, 2025

By Esme Campbell

Disruption is expected to double at London Gatwick as workers get set to strike at the end of the month due to disputes over pay and treatment.

The industrial action, to be taken by Unite members from two firms, will cause flight cancellations and delays over the coming weeks, including May half term.

“Workers at both companies have had enough of poor pay offers and appalling treatment from their employers,” said Unite general secretary Sharon Graham. “It is little surprise they are taking strike action.”

The first strike will commence today, May 11, as over 100 workers from baggage company Red Handling will walk out for four consecutive Sundays.

The action results from several issues workers have had with Red Handling. Workers say these include missing and incorrect pension payments, getting paid late and being unable to take proper breaks.

The company has also been accused of union-busting tactics, including employing agency workers to cover the last series of strikes, and putting those who took action on unsatisfactory shifts.

David Taylor, Unite regional officer, said: “The way our workers have been treated by Red Handling since returning to work after the first wave of action is nothing short of a disgrace.

“Our message throughout this has been simple: pay our members their pensions and there will be no more action.”

Additionally, plane refuellers from Redline Oil Services Ltd will have two sets of four-day strikes, from May 16 and May 23, having rejected a pay increase offer of 3.5 per cent over two years.

David Taylor continued: “We appreciate that delays and cancellations are very frustrating for those looking to travel, especially during the half-term holidays, but this is a dispute entirely of Red Handling and Redline’s own making.

“We urge them both to come back to the table for negotiations.”