Edinburgh Airport is facing the threat of strikes during the busy festive season, which could disrupt domestic and international flights. The strikes are being considered by tanker drivers employed by North Air, who supply fuel to airlines, in a dispute over pay. The Unite union has announced that the pay dispute stems from a rejected 4.5% pay offer by North Air after years of below-inflation pay increases.
Despite recent talks with Acas, Unite members have “overwhelmingly” backed strike action to secure a better pay offer. If there is no progress on the pay issue in the coming days, strike dates will be issued, potentially impacting peak festive season flights. Flights that could be affected include United Airlines to New York, Emirates to Dubai, and Loganair’s domestic routes to the islands.
Sharon Graham, Unite general secretary, criticised North Air for not making an improved pay offer to the tanker drivers, pointing out that the company had seen an increase in profits. Unite’s Runway To Success campaign has previously secured improved pay packages for workers at Scottish airports, including a 12% basic increase for Edinburgh Airport Services workers.
Carrie Binnie, Unite industrial officer, emphasised that the tanker drivers deserve a fair pay rise and highlighted that the pay at North Air has not kept up with inflation despite the company’s profitability. Edinburgh Airport has declined to comment on the situation, while North Air has been contacted for a response.
In summary, Edinburgh Airport is facing the threat of strikes during the festive season as tanker drivers employed by North Air consider industrial action over pay disputes. The Unite union has expressed support for its members in demanding a fair pay rise, citing the company’s profitability as a basis for improved pay offers. This situation could potentially impact flights during the busy holiday season, including key routes to international destinations and domestic flights to the islands.