There will be flight disruption at the UK's second largest airport this month as over 220 workers who provide assisted travel strike over pay.

The Unite members involved in the dispute work at Wilson James at London Gatwick Airport. Unite has been engaged in pay negotiations with Wilson James since May, however it is failing to table an acceptable offer to workers.

Unite members have unanimously rejected a two-year offer of a 3.4 per cent uplift in pay plus a 0.6 per cent non-consolidated bonus and just 0.5 per cent uplift in pensions for 2026 followed by a rise of CPI plus 0.5 per cent next year. This does not go far enough to address years of low pay at the firm.

Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said: "Wilson James is a highly profitable company which can more than afford to put forward a pay deal that reflects the hard work our members do.

"These workers are vital in the smooth running of the airport, doing a key role in assisting passengers on and off flights. Their jobs have become even more difficult as Gatwick has become busier.”

Last year, Wilson James's profit before tax was £17.43 million while its highest paid director received a 38.7 per cent pay rise from £483,000 per year to £670,000 per year. The contract is funded by Gatwick Airport Ltd who had a £464.2 million profit before tax in 2025.

Meanwhile the lowest paid members at Wilson James are on £14.71 per hour while living in an area with a high cost of living, which has left many struggling to afford essentials such as bills and housing. Meanwhile, workloads have increased with Gatwick just having experienced its busiest summer season since 2019.

Strikes will take place on 17 September to 21 September then 23 September to 26 September. Industrial action means it will take longer to board and disembark passengers who rely on the service leading to flight delays across both short-haul and long-haul services to and from Gatwick.

Unite regional officer Ben Davis said: "Unite has been trying to negotiate a better pay deal for our members for months, however Wilson James has failed to put forward an offer that is acceptable to workers.

“Industrial action will inevitably disrupt services throughout Gatwick but this is a direct result of Wilson James refusal to make a fair offer to our members. Strikes can be avoided but that requires the company making a significantly improved offer.”

ENDS

Notes to editors

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