Thousands of festive travellers face severe disruption and potential Christmas travel chaos at a major UK airport after ground staff voted for strike action.
Strike Dates and Flight Disruption
Check-in and baggage handling staff employed by DHL for easyJet at London Luton Airport will walk out for six days in total. The first wave of industrial action will run from 3am on December 19 to 3am on December 22.
According to the Unite union, this will affect a significant number of flights: 71 flights on December 19, 60 on December 20, and 74 on December 21.
A second wave of strikes is then scheduled from 3am on Boxing Day (December 26) to 3am on December 29. During this period, 71 flights may be affected on December 26, a further 60 on December 27, and 74 on December 28.
Pay Dispute at the Heart of the Action
The strike involves around 200 workers, all members of Unite. They have rejected a pay offer from DHL of a 4.5 per cent rise, arguing it fails to address the cost of living crisis and leaves them struggling to afford essentials.
Unite's general secretary, Sharon Graham, stated: 'DHL and easyJet can comfortably afford to offer these workers an above-inflation pay rise. It is shameful that hardworking members can't afford the basics.'
She accused the companies of putting profits before people, a claim underscored by recent financial reports. DHL Group's operating profits rose 5.7% to €1.4 billion in a recent quarter, while easyJet expects profits exceeding £700 million for the year to September 2025.
Impact on Passengers and Popular Routes
The striking staff operate on many of easyJet's popular routes from Luton, including services to destinations in:
- Spain
- Germany
- Italy
- Czech Republic
Unite regional officer Jeff Hodge acknowledged passenger concern but placed blame firmly on DHL: 'The dispute is entirely the fault of DHL who can well afford to pay these workers a wage they can live on but are choosing not to.'
One worker shared their personal struggle, saying: 'I can't afford to save to give a better life to my child or spend enough time with my child.'
The union has indicated that strike action could still be avoided if DHL returns to negotiations with an improved offer. Passengers booked on easyJet flights from London Luton Airport during the strike periods are strongly advised to check the status of their travel arrangements directly with the airline.
