Travel could face significant disruption this summer as the Unite union confirmed that 900 workers across three major UK airports will vote on industrial action amid ongoing pay disputes. The ballots, opening this week, involve staff at Aberdeen, Edinburgh, and Glasgow airports, with potential strikes coinciding with the busiest holiday period, the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow (July 23 to August 2), and the World Cup in the United States.
Ballot Details and Timeline
Unite announced that four ballots will close on May 21, while ICTS staff at Aberdeen have until May 28 to cast their votes. If successful, strike action could begin during the peak summer season, causing widespread delays and cancellations. The union emphasized that the companies involved are highly profitable and capable of offering fair pay increases.
Unite's Statement
Unite General Secretary Sharon Graham stated: “Hundreds of workers across Scotland’s largest airports are heading towards summer strike action. The companies involved are all highly profitable. They can easily afford to give our members fair and reasonable pay offers but have decided to put boosting profits before people.”
Workers Affected
The ballot includes ICTS workers who handle security searches, passenger processing, access control, mobile patrols, and delivery screening. Additionally, Edinburgh Airport Limited staff—such as ambassadors, airside support officers, engineers, and managers—are being balloted, along with approximately 280 ground services crew employed by Menzies Aviation.
Potential Impact
Carrie Donoghue, Unite industrial officer, warned: “Any strike action would ground planes and passengers during an expectedly busy period with the World Cup and the Commonwealth Games. The blame for this situation arising will lie entirely with these extremely wealthy companies. They can end these disputes immediately, and in doing so they can give the travelling public peace of mind.”
Airport Response
A Glasgow Airport spokesperson said last week: “We are aware of ongoing talks between Unite and ICTS and are keen to ensure that this dialogue results in a positive resolution.”
