Airport staff set to go on strike during Christmas

Travelers planning flights from London Luton Airport during the holiday season have been alerted to possible interruptions as airport staff prepare to strike, according to union sources. Unite announced that easyJet check-in and baggage handling employees, employed by DHL Group, will stage a walkout over pay disputes.

Approximately 200 staff members are expected to participate in the strike on selected days between 03:00 GMT on 19 December and 03:00 on 29 December after rejecting DHLs latest offer of a 4.5% pay increase.

The union highlighted that similar positions at London Gatwick Airport receive around 3 more per hour, and expressed concern over both DHL and easyJets reported company profits. Unite's regional officer, Jeff Hodge, stated: "Passengers flying easyJet from Luton on these dates may face inconvenience, but the issue stems entirely from DHL, who have the means to provide fair wages but are choosing not to."

The strike is scheduled from 19 December at 03:00 until 22 December at 03:00, and from 26 December at 03:00 to 29 December at 03:00. Around 410 flights are expected to be affected during this period.

The Civil Aviation Authority anticipates record passenger numbers this Christmas, with millions of people traveling across the UK during the festive period.

Passengers and the public are following updates closely, as the strike could significantly impact holiday travel plans.

Author: Logan Reeves