Industrial action that would have brought East Midlands Airport to a standstill has been averted after members of Unite, the UK's leading union, secured a two-year pay deal.

Refuellers working for Valero had voted to take strike action, but this has now been called off after they accepted the new deal. They will receive a 6.5 per cent uplift in year one followed by 3.5 per cent in year two. Payments will be processed in May’s pay and backdated to June 2024, then the second year's payment will be received by the workers in their June pay checks.

Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said: "Workers will be celebrating this excellent deal, which proves why it pays to be a member of Unite.

"Our mission to improve pay and conditions is once again putting more money in our members’ pockets.”

As well as the improved pay, the refuellers will receive enhanced overtime rates, increased holiday entitlements, paid training and a non-consolidated lump sum increase.

Ten members of staff will receive the improved pay, while six agency workers will benefit indirectly.

Unite regional officer Katie Morris said: "After a year of fighting to improve members' pay, we are delighted to have won them a great deal.

"It is a clear of example of why workers looking for decent wages and improvements to their working lives should join Unite today."

ENDS

For media enquires ONLY contact Unite press officer Natasha Wynarczyk on 07970081524

Email: natasha.wynarczyk@unitetheunion.org