Gatwick baggage screening strikes cancelled after new pay offer

Strikes planned by hold baggage screeners at Gatwick airport have been called off after the workers voted to accept an improved pay deal.

The action, scheduled to take place from August 29 to September 2, will no longer take place after staff employed by ICTS agreed on a 7% pay rise back paid to April 2025.

Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said: “This is trade unionism in action: by being prepared to strike, ICTS workers at Gatwick won a 7% pay rise.

“Once again, Unite’s laser focus on improving jobs, pay and conditions is putting money in our members’ pockets.”

In addition to an increase in the hourly rate, Good Friday, Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day will now all be paid at double time, backdated to April 2025.

As part of the deal, parking subsidy rates have increased from 25% to 40%.

Death in service benefits have also increased from £10,000 to £15,000 for those with more than one year’s service but less than five and from £20,000 to £30,000 for those with more than five years.

Unite regional officer Ben Davis said: “Well done to Unite’s reps and members at ICTS who stood together and won.”

Earlier this month, strikes planned by ICTS baggage screeners due to take place from August 22 to August 26 were also suspended.