An all-out strike by plane refuelers employed by Menzies Aviation at Birmingham Airport has been called off at the eleventh hour following an improved pay offer.

The workers were due to begin strike action tomorrow (Tuesday 15 August), which would have created considerable disruption and delays across the airport.

However, as workers began to prepare to walk out, Menzies made a revised offer. The new offer is as follows: a nine per cent pay increase, a one-off payment of £750, making temporary staff permanent, and upgrading communications technology. The members were balloted on the offer and it was accepted.

Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said: “Our members were able to secure an improved offer by standing firm, together.

“This deal proves that Unite’s laser like focus on the jobs, pay and conditions of its members is paying direct financial dividends for workers.”

 Unite regional officer Sulinder Singh said: “From the very outset of this dispute Unite has been clear that Menzies could afford to make our members an improved offer and that has shown to be the case.”

ENDS

Notes to editors

For media enquiries ONLY please contact Unite senior communications officer Barckley Sumner on 07802 329235 or 0203 371 2067.

Email: barckley.sumner@unitetheunion.org

Unite is the UK and Ireland’s leading union fighting to protect and advance jobs, pay and conditions for members working across all sectors of the economy. The general secretary is Sharon Graham