Almost 700 airport workers in Edinburgh and Glasgow are set to announce strikes over the upcoming summer holiday season, which includes the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow. Unite the union mentioned that strike dates will be disclosed soon, with industrial action planned during these major events.
The dispute stems from pay issues, with approximately 370 Edinburgh Airport Limited employees and 320 ICTS and Menzies Aviation workers in Glasgow supporting strike action. ICTS workers play a crucial role in passenger security checks and flight processing.
Unite general secretary Sharon Graham highlighted that employees at Scotland’s major airports have overwhelmingly approved summer strike action due to employers’ reluctance to offer fair pay. She emphasized that the workers have no choice but to strike, placing the responsibility on companies prioritizing profits over their workforce.
In response, a Menzies Aviation spokesperson expressed disappointment over the union’s decision to proceed with industrial action, aiming to disrupt flights at the Edinburgh and Glasgow airports. The company claimed to have presented a fair pay proposal, considering the challenging operational circumstances caused by the Middle East conflict.
Both Menzies Aviation and ICTS are actively engaging in discussions with the union to resolve the pay dispute and avoid any disruptions to airline operations. Edinburgh Airport and AGS Airports are also involved in talks with the unions to address the pay concerns raised by the workers.
Efforts are being made to reach an amicable resolution before the planned industrial action commences, with contingency plans in place to minimize any potential disruptions to airline services and passengers.
