Luton Airport strike action may take place this summer meaning flight delays and cancellations

Luton is easyJet’s base airport which could mean huge disruption to those travelling on holiday to Europe this summer.

The Unite union has announced that there could be a “total shutdown” over pay and zero-hour contracts.

Firefighters, baggage handlers and security guards at the airport are represented by the union and could take part in the strike.

There have been big pay rises for some bosses and record numbers of people using the airport but the union says pay rises for other staff is “paltry”.

They are being offered a pay rise of 2.15 per cent, while the price of household goods has increase by 3.3 per cent this year.

Unite says this is “a pay cut in real terms”.

Meanwhile some Luton bosses have seen rises of 59 per cent.

If it’s voted that a strike will take place then the action could begin at the end of May – leading to flight cancellations and delays.

The union says that its workers have increased turnover at the airport by 10.8 per cent to £163million.

It’s also been the airport’s busiest year on record with an 8.6 per cent increase in passengers.

Unite regional co-ordinating officer Ian Maidlow said: “Luton Airport workers regardless of their employer deserve a decent rate of pay for their work and to be treated fairly by management.

“These ballots demonstrate that members will no longer accept paltry pay packets and unfair treatment while their bosses constantly squeeze every last penny to boost profits.

“Workers employed directly by Luton airport have announced a strike ballot because they are justifiably up in arms over pay.

“They are being offered a pay cut in real terms when the airport’s bosses have enriched themselves with sky high pay increases.

“Turnover at Luton airport is up, company profits are up and passenger numbers are up, but the workers on the front line are being given a pay cut.

“London Luton Airport now faces the prospect of a total shutdown if workers vote for strike action.

“It’s time for management to get around the negotiating table and resolve this dispute.”

A spokesperson for Luton Airport said: “Given we have made a revised pay offer in-line with the current rate of inflation at 2.5% and negotiations are ongoing, it is disappointing to see Unite balloting for industrial action.

"Our staff receive a remuneration package in-line with the rest of the market, including a competitive salary, private health insurance and a generous pension scheme.

"In addition, our staff receive a share of profits, which this year is likely to be in the region of £5,000 for every qualifying employee”.

Sun Online Travel previously revealed the "flight from hell" on easyJet from Glasgow to Bristol – with broken seats and a broken toilet.

Source: Read Full Article