EasyJet expects to operate full schedule despite strike plan at Luton

EasyJet expects to operate a full schedule over six days later this month when its ground-handlers are set to go on strike.

 

The action will involve easyJet check-in and baggage handling staff employed by DHL, who have voted to walk out for six days in a dispute over pay.

 

Unite the union had warned of “festive Luton airport travel turmoil” because about 200 of its members voted to take action over the Christmas period.

 

The union said the staff are outsourced to easyJet by DHL and work on popular routes to countries such as Spain, Germany, Italy and Czech Republic.

 

An easyJet spokesperson commented: “We are disappointed to hear of the planned industrial action by Unite ground handlers employed by DHL at London Luton Airport on December 19-21 and 26-28.

 

“Should this action go ahead, we will work closely with the airport and DHL to ensure that robust contingency plans are in place to minimise any disruption so we are currently expecting to operate our full flying programme on these dates.

 

“In the meantime we urge DHL and Unite to reach an agreement as soon as possible.”

 

A Luton airport spokesperson added: “EasyJet has confirmed they expect to operate a full schedule during this proposed strike action from their ground handling agent, DHL.

 

“We will be working with them to understand the contingencies they have planned.”

 

The workers are taking action after rejecting the latest offer of a 4.5% pay rise.

 

The union said: “Workers believe this doesn’t go far enough to address the low pay rates, the current cost-of-living crisis and rising food, fuel and heating bills, with workers struggling to afford essentials, while DHL workers at Gatwick earn around £3 an hour more for doing the same job.”

 

Unite general secretary Sharon Graham commented: “DHL and easyJet can comfortably afford to offer these workers an above-inflation pay rise. It is shameful that hardworking members can’t afford the basics and they are paid less than their counterparts.

 

Strikes by DHL workers at Luton will take place from 03:00 on Friday December 19 to 03:00 Monday December 22, then from 03:00 on Boxing Day (December 26) to 03:00 on Monday December 29.

 

The union estimates that 410 easyJet flights will be affected across the six days of action.

 

Unite regional officer Jeff Hodge said: "We know passengers set to fly easyJet from Luton on these dates will be concerned, but the dispute is entirely the fault of DHL who can well afford to pay these workers a wage they can live on but are choosing not to.

 

"Strike action could still be avoided, but that now hinges on DHL returning to negotiations with an offer that is acceptable to our members."

 

More: EasyJet Luton flights face Christmas strike threat