Strikes at airports in the Highlands and islands have been paused as unions consider a new pay deal. PCS, Prospect and Unite members have been offered an improved 7% rise, after rejecting a 5% deal in October.
The industrial action, which began in December, has disrupted services at Highlands and Islands Airports Ltd (Hial) airports including Barra, Dundee, Stornoway and Sumburgh. Fire and rescue, security and admin staff have been involved.
Prospect and Unite have suspended strikes from Monday while they ballot their members. Jane Rose of Prospect said the improved offer was welcome, though wider pay structure issues remain. Unite described the offer as a significant step forward, but said the final decision rests with members.
NHS Western Isles said the suspension comes too late to rearrange flights for around 500 patients affected by the strikes. The health board had made alternative arrangements for consultant visits and mainland appointments after Loganair warned it would suspend some island flights from 17 March.
Hial managing director Inglis Lyon said the improved pay offer was included in a new business case approved by Transport Scotland, and apologised for the disruption. Loganair welcomed the positive step and aims to resume services as soon as practical.
