UK airport faces potential shutdown as staff prepare for three-day walkout

Union blames airport management for ongoing dispute

The planned walkout is due to take place from Friday, October 16, through to Sunday, October 18, with check-in staff, passport control workers, cleaners and passenger assistance teams all set to take part.

Unite, the union representing the workers, has warned that the action could leave the airport ‘shut down’, pointing to the number of essential staff expected to walk out.

The remaining dispute involves ‘hourly paid staff’, who are currently voting on a separate offer. The ballot closes today, meaning the outcome could determine whether the planned walkout goes ahead.

If workers reject the offer, the strike is expected to proceed, leaving passengers potentially facing disruption over the weekend.

Unite regional officer Neil Whitaker said: "We appreciate those travelling to and from Leeds Bradford Airport will be concerned to hear that there are further strike dates, but the situation is completely the fault of the airport’s management."

Leeds Bradford Airport, however, criticised the union’s approach. A spokesperson told Metro: "These aggressive tactics serve no purpose and only create uncertainty for the hardworking customers of Leeds Bradford Airport."

Leeds Bradford Airport says talks are ongoing

At the heart of the dispute is pay, with workers calling for salaries that match those offered for equivalent jobs at Newcastle Airport.

The two airports have the same majority owner, Spanish company AENA, following a multi-million-pound holding company deal completed in May.

Unite claims the pay gap is particularly stark for air traffic controllers. Those starting out in Leeds reportedly earn around £34,000 a year, compared with approximately £55,000 for the same role in Newcastle.

Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said the difference was unfair, arguing that staff carrying out the same work should receive comparable pay.

"It is wrong that workers at Leeds Bradford Airport are paid far less than those doing the same job at another nearby airport," she said.

She also highlighted the responsibility that comes with the roles, adding: "These are essential workers who play a vital role in ensuring the smooth running of the airport and the safety of passengers and deserve fair pay. Unite will always fully back our members taking action at Leeds Bradford Airport."

Leeds Bradford Airport said it was still seeking a resolution to the dispute, telling Metro: "We remain committed to working with Unite and our colleagues to reach a fair resolution through meaningful discussion with the remaining area."