Staff at Border Force, the entity performing customs and immigration checks at the UK’s border control in airports such as Heathrow, have voted to strike due to disputes over shift patterns. Although an exact date has not been confirmed, walkouts have been rumoured to start as early as April 5.
According to a report published by London Heathrow Airport, in 2023 the average waiting time at border control was less than 25 minutes. Should the strike go ahead as expected, it could result in significantly longer wait times.
The UK’s Home Office, which oversees Border Force, is planning to post additional personnel during the strikes to reduce delays.
“We are working closely with Heathrow Airport and have robust plans in place to minimise any delays from planned strike action. We will deploy suitable resources to meet critical demand and support the flow of passengers and goods through our border,” a Home Office spokesperson told The Independent.
