Nine airlines operating at London Gatwick Airport (LGW) could face disruption after refuelling staff employed by Menzies on the Shell contract voted on potential industrial action over pay and overtime conditions.
Pay dispute threatens summer operations
According to Unite the Union, the ballot closes on Aug. 11, with strike action expected to begin shortly afterwards if members vote in favour. The proposed action could affect between 7,000 and 8,000 passengers a day travelling with airlines including Ryanair, Wizz Air, Turkish Airlines, airBaltic and Air China.
Unite said workers are seeking a 4.5% pay increase and improved overtime rates to match those received by other Menzies employees at Gatwick. The union said staff had rejected a 3.5% pay offer, arguing it did not reflect the company’s financial performance.
If industrial action proceeds, refuelling services for airlines including Ryanair, Wizz Air, China Southern, Malta Air, SkyAlps and Air Peace could be affected during the busy summer travel period.
London Gatwick said it is aware of the dispute and hopes an agreement can be reached through ongoing negotiations.
Airport prepares as talks continue
Gatwick is the UK’s second-busiest airport and one of Europe’s busiest single-runway airports, serving hundreds of departures each day during the summer season.
While no strike dates have been confirmed, airport officials and airlines will closely monitor developments as discussions between Unite and Menzies continue.
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