Holidaymakers flying with EasyJet from Luton Airport are bracing for significant disruption this Christmas after ground staff voted overwhelmingly for strike action in a dispute over pay.
Staff Reject Pay Offer Amid Cost of Living Crisis
Around 200 workers, who are members of the Unite union, have rejected a pay rise offer of 4.5 per cent from their employer, DHL. DHL provides check-in and baggage handling services for EasyJet at the Bedfordshire airport.
The employees argue that the proposed increase fails to keep pace with the soaring cost of living, which has seen sharp rises in food, fuel, and heating bills. They also highlight a pay disparity, noting that DHL staff performing identical roles at Gatwick Airport earn approximately £3 more per hour.
One worker shared their personal struggle, stating: "My pay simply isn't enough. I'm stuck in a cycle where I can only cover rent and food. I can't afford to save for my child's future or even spend the quality time with them that I want to."
Union Slams "Profits Over People" Approach
Unite General Secretary Sharon Graham strongly criticised both DHL and EasyJet. "These companies can comfortably afford to offer an above-inflation pay rise," she said. "It is shameful that hardworking members can't afford the basics while being paid less than their counterparts elsewhere."
Graham accused the firms of putting profits before people and stated the disruptive strike was "entirely of their making." Unite regional officer Jeff Hodge echoed this, warning that the walkout could still be avoided if DHL returns to negotiations with a "sensible offer" that addresses the workers' legitimate needs.
Major Festive Travel Disruption Expected
The industrial action is scheduled to cause chaos across two of the busiest travel weekends of the festive season. The strike will begin at 3am on Thursday 19 December and continue until 3am on Sunday 22 December.
It will then resume at 3am on Boxing Day (26 December) and run until 3am on Sunday 29 December. In total, the six days of action threaten to disrupt hundreds of EasyJet flights from Luton, affecting routes to major holiday destinations.
Passengers booked to travel from Luton Airport with EasyJet during these periods are being strongly advised to:
- Regularly check their flight status for updates.
- Prepare for potential delays and cancellations.
- Expect lengthy queues at check-in and baggage drop areas.
Both DHL and EasyJet have been contacted for comment regarding the impending strike and its potential impact on Christmas travel plans.
