Travelers at London Gatwick Airport face significant disruptions in May and June as workers from two companies, Red Handling and Redline Oil Services Ltd, plan strike action.
Represented by Unite, the UK’s leading union, these workers will stage walkouts, including during the busy May half-term holiday.
The planned industrial actions come amidst ongoing disputes over pay, pensions, and working conditions.
Redline Oil Workers Strike Over Pay Dispute
Redline Oil Services Ltd employees, who refuel aircraft for airlines like easyJet, will strike over an unsatisfactory pay offer. The workers rejected a 3.5% pay increase over two years, prompting two four-day strikes.
The first begins on May 16 and runs through May 20, followed by another from May 23 to May 27. These strikes coincide with the early May half-term, a peak travel period at Gatwick, easyJet’s largest hub.
The Redline workers’ role is critical, ensuring planes have the fuel needed for flights. Their absence will likely lead to canceled or delayed flights, causing headaches for travelers.
Unite has pledged full support for its members, emphasizing their right to fair compensation.
Red Handling Workers Demand Better Treatment
Meanwhile, over 100 Red Handling workers, including baggage handlers, check-in staff, and flight dispatchers, will strike on four consecutive Sundays: May 11, May 18, May 25, and June 2.
These actions follow a walkout during the Easter weekend and will bookend the May half-term, amplifying disruptions. Red Handling staff manage around 50 daily flights for airlines such as Norwegian, Delta, and TAP.
The workers are frustrated by multiple issues, including late wage payments, missing or incorrect pension contributions, and inadequate break times.
These problems have caused financial strain and workplace dissatisfaction. Unite has accused Red Handling of employing union-busting tactics.
It has alleged the hiring of agency workers to cover previous strikes, and assigning unfavorable shifts to strikers. The union says the employer is conducting intimidating “back-to-work” interviews to discourage further action.
Unite’s Stance and Call for Negotiation
Unite general secretary Sharon Graham expressed strong support for the workers. “Our members at Red Handling and Redline have endured poor pay offers and unacceptable treatment. They have every right to strike, and we will back them fully.”
She criticized both companies for failing to address workers’ concerns.
Unite regional officer David Taylor called Red Handling’s post-strike treatment of workers “disgraceful.”
He accused the company of widespread union-busting and broken promises, particularly regarding pension payments. Taylor urged Red Handling and Redline to return to the negotiating table to resolve the disputes and avoid further disruptions.
Impact on Travelers
The overlapping strikes will double the disruption at Gatwick, frustrating passengers, especially during the half-term holidays.
Unite acknowledges the inconvenience but insists the blame lies with Red Handling and Redline for ignoring workers’ demands. The union remains open to talks but warns that without meaningful progress, industrial action will continue.
Travelers planning to use Gatwick Airport in May and June should prepare for potential delays and cancellations.
Checking with airlines for updates and allowing extra time for travel can help mitigate the impact of these disruptions.
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