Unite, the workers’ union, has announced the commencement of strikes at Red Handling, a ground handling company that manages services for several airlines including Norse Atlantic, Norwegian, Delta, Tap Air Portugal, and Saudia. The strikes are expected to affect around 45,000 passengers and result in delays and disruptions to 216 flights.
With the unrest in the aviation industry, there are concerns about travel chaos at the end of summer for holidaymakers, as witnessed with massive cancellations last year. Furthermore, the ongoing strikes by French air traffic controllers have already compelled airlines to cancel flights or divert them to longer flight paths.
In 2022, after the pandemic, passenger numbers rebounded, and as a consequence, a third of all flights experienced delays, according to data from the Civil Aviation Authority. This highlights the far-reaching impact of disruptions in this industry.
Earlier this month, Unite called off strike action at various other ground handling companies after receiving improved pay offers. However, Dominic Rothwell, Unite’s regional officer, emphasized that the ongoing strike at Red Handling is a result of the employers’ failure to provide a fair pay offer despite multiple opportunities.
Responding to the situation, a spokesperson for Wilson James expressed disappointment, remarking that the recent industrial ballot result has affected the operational leadership team. The company’s pay offer, which exceeds the inflation rate, reflects their commitment to their employees. Additionally, it is important to note that last year, Wilson James granted a significant pay increase while many other companies froze salaries.
No comment has been provided by Red Handling at this stage.
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