Security staff at Aberdeen Airport have overwhelmingly backed industrial action in a dispute over pay, raising fears of summer travel disruption. This comes after strike threats were lifted at Scotland's other major airports.
Unanimous Vote for Action
Members of the Unite union employed by ICTS HBS voted unanimously in favour of industrial action. The prospect of disruption at Aberdeen Airport remains unless an improved pay offer is tabled.
Background of Dispute
The development follows improved pay deals at Glasgow and Edinburgh airports, which ended the threat of summer walkouts that could have affected holidaymakers, World Cup flights, and the Commonwealth Games.
At Glasgow Airport, nearly 400 workers employed by ICTS and Menzies Aviation accepted revised offers after initially rejecting what Unite described as 'unacceptable' pay proposals. More than 400 Edinburgh Airport workers also agreed a two-year deal, securing a minimum pay increase of £1,800 this year and a 5.5 per cent rise in 2026.
Aberdeen's Situation
Two groups of workers at Aberdeen Airport last week agreed pay settlements, averting industrial action. However, security staff employed by ICTS HBS have now voted in favour of strike action, meaning disruption at the airport remains a possibility.
Paula Buchan, Unite industrial officer, said: 'Our ICTS HBS security members have unanimously backed industrial action. Imminent talks are scheduled with the employer and we await an improved pay offer to potentially resolve this dispute before strike action.'
Next Steps
The union said discussions with the company are due to take place in the coming days to secure a breakthrough and avoid any walkouts. Earlier this week, Unite welcomed improved deals for workers at Glasgow and Edinburgh airports, saying the settlements removed the threat of disruption during one of the busiest periods of the year for Scotland's aviation sector.
