Aberdeen Airport workers vote to strike over summer holiday period

Unite the union has confirmed industrial action is planned over three days in July and August

The impact on flights remains unclear at this stage (istock)

Workers at Aberdeen International Airport have voted overwhelmingly for strike action, prompting fears of flight cancellations.

Unite the union confirmed that 24-hour industrial action was planned for 20 July, 2 August and 16 August after 88 per cent of members voted in favour.

The action is due to involve around 170 workers across the site.

The dispute concerns staff pay and is the third time in two years workers have rejected a wage increase below inflation, according to The Press and Journal.

An airport spokesperson said: “We have been informed by Unite of their intention to take industrial action on Friday 20 July. This follows the rejection of our proposed pay offer.

“We believe we have made an offer that is entirely fair and reasonable and we are committed to continuing discussions to reach a resolution acceptable to all parties.”

Wullie Wallace, Unite regional officer, said: “Unite remain open to further discussions with a view to resolving the dispute.

“The workforce for several years now has received below inflation increases and the company’s idea of rewarding their hard working employees is by offering more real terms pay cuts.

“Aberdeen Airport has been investing heavily into improving the airport facilities and amenities. It’s high time for the company to invest in their employees."

The impact on flights remains unclear at this stage.

The strikes are part of a wave of industrial action across the aviation sector affecting holidaymakers during the busy summer period.

Ryanair pilots are striking on 12 July in a row over working practices, with union members in Italy, Spain and Portugal set to join them on 25 July.

In a statement published on its website yesterday, Ryanair confirmed that up to 30 Irish flights will be cancelled.