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Union warns of Heathrow disruption during HGV drivers’ strike

A union has warned of “major disruption” at Heathrow next month when about 100 HGV drivers are set to go on strike over pay and employment conditions.

The drivers at aviation catering firm DO & CO at the airport will strike on March 4-5, said Unite.

Its members have voted by 94% for strike action which would mainly disrupt British Airways’ flights, particularly long-haul, because food has to be on board for pilots and cabin crew.

Unite warned that flights could be cancelled during the action, which is planned from 4am on March 4 until 11.59pm on March 5.

Sharon Graham, Unite general secretary, said: “These HGV drivers at Heathrow have Unite’s full support in their strike action next month for decent pay and union recognition.”

Unite regional officer Shereen Higginson added: “Strike action will cause major disruption for BA and other airlines as pilots and cabin crew are required to have food on board as part of their contracts.

“The impact would be most severe on flights of more than six hours in duration – three hours to the destination and three back to the UK. No food on board equals no flights.”

Picture by Stuart Monk/Shutterstock.com

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