Union warns of ‘turmoil’ after easyJet workers vote to strike at Luton

Unite the union has warned of “festive Luton airport travel turmoil” because about 200 of its members have voted to strike over the Christmas period.

 

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

 

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.

 

The members of Unite 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."

 

Travel Weekly has approached Luton airport and easyJet for a response.

 

More: EasyJet Luton flights face Christmas strike threat