Unite, the UK’s leading union, has secured an average pay rise of 8.3 per cent for more than 4,600 workers employed by 11 different companies at Gatwick in recent weeks.

The figures were released as around 400 Wilson James passenger assistance workers, who were scheduled to strike, voted in favour of a pay offer worth 10.5 per cent.

In addition, around 170 ICTS baggage screening workers, who had also voted for strike action, have accepted an 11 per cent deal.

Other notable pay deals include an eight per cent rise plus a £900 one off payment for 1,900 workers directly employed by Gatwick and 9.8 per cent for 1,100 DHL easyJet workers.

Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said: “As these phenomenal results show, Unite is reversing the trend of jobs at Gatwick being underpaid and undervalued. Unite is achieving this by organising workers at Gatwick and relentlessly focusing on improving jobs, pay and conditions.

“Congratulations to our reps and members at the airport – their hard work and solidarity was essential to achieving these pay deals.”

The 11 employers where Unite secured pay deals for 4,625 workers are: Gatwick Airport Ltd, DHL EasyJet, Menzies, ASC, North Air, ABM Airside, Red Handling, ICTS, DHL Gatwick Direct, Wilson James and Gate Gourmet.

Unite regional officer Dominic Rothwell said: “Unite’s work at Gatwick shows why it is the union for the UK’s airport and aviation workers. Workers who want better wages and working lives should join Unite and get their colleagues to do the same.”

ENDS

For media enquires ONLY contact senior Unite communications officer Ryan Fletcher on 07849 090215 or 020 3371 2065.  

Email: ryan.fletcher@unitetheunion.org

Unite is Britain and Ireland’s largest union with members working across all sectors of the economy. The general secretary is Sharon Graham.