The Unite union has announced that baggage handlers and check-in staff who provide services to Wizz Air at Luton airport are set to strike for one week in March.
Members employed by GH London Ground Handling Services (formerly known as Azzurra Ground Handling) at Luton airport have voted in favour of a walk-out from 1800 on Sunday, 3 March until 1759 on Sunday, 10 March.
Staff are protesting the company’s decision to impose a pay freeze, with 96 per cent of those taking part in the ballot supporting the strike.
Unite says it submitted a pay claim at the beginning of 2018, and alleges that it has only been since workers voted to strike that GH London Ground Handling Services has requested talks.
The company provides ground-handling services at Luton airport for low-cost carrier Wizz Air, which operates around 42 routes, mainly to Europe.
Unite regional officer Jeff Hodge said: “Unite has been calling for meaningful talks with GH London since the beginning of 2018. This strike vote is a result of the company’s failure to listen to its workforce, who face a cut in their living standards. Now that the company is prepared to meet, we hope we can get constructive talks underway to resolve this dispute.
“Luton airport is one of the busiest airports in the UK. A strike by baggage handlers and check-in staff will cause considerable disruption to flights. It is time for GH London to recognise the contribution workers make by increasing pay so they can keep up with the rising cost of living.”