Strikes at Heathrow have been averted after a unanimous vote by security staff to accept a pay deal.
The strikes had been scheduled for nearly every summer weekend until the end of August – about 29 strike days – which would have continued throughout the school holidays, potentially leading to disruption and queues at airport security.
The new deal affects the pay and conditions of employment for over 2 000 security staff at Terminals 3 and 5. The airport agreed to a 10% pay rise backdated from January 1, a further rise of 1,5% from October, and an increase of 4% in 2024 to accommodate inflation. The deal also improves maternity and paternity leave pay.
"We are pleased to confirm that Unite members have voted to accept a two-year above-inflation pay deal, ending the current dispute and allowing the strikes to be called off,” said an airport spokesperson. “We can now move forward together and focus on delivering an excellent summer for our passengers.”
“This was a hard-won victory that demonstrates what can be achieved when workers stand together,” said General Secretary of Unite, Sharon Graham.
Airport staff from Unite previously postponed strikes on June 24 and 25 after receiving an improved offer that they believed met inflation rates.
