Passengers travelling from Southampton airport could face significant disruption as workers prepare to strike for three Saturdays in November.
Airside operations controllers, firefighters, technicians and engineering workers will strike on November 5, 12 and 19 due to a pay dispute.
Staff have not had a pay rise since 2019, which Unite union says is “completely wrong” given current inflation levels. The union is also calling for a review of salary bands and said the airport should act quickly to “avoid an escalation of the dispute”.
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Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said: “During the pandemic, workers at Southampton airport made huge sacrifices, accepting reductions in pay and conditions while working around the clock to keep the airport safe and running.
“Inflation is now at a 40-year high. It’s completely wrong for the employers, AGS, to refuse these safety critical workers a decent pay increase after a three-year freeze. The workers have had enough.
“The airport bosses need to make a realistic pay offer to the staff if they are to avoid an escalation of the dispute. They should do that now.”
Unite regional officer Ian Woodland said: “Southampton airport has a good future ahead. Not only did the workers go beyond the call of duty during the pandemic but they campaigned to help secure the runway extension.
“It’s time to recognise the workers’ contribution with a fair pay deal.”
A spokesperson for AGS Airports, which owns the airport, told the BBC: “We value our people and are determined to find a resolution.
“In an effort to do so we are engaging the dispute resolution service ACAS, with a view to finding a way forward that works for all parties.”