The threat of flight disruption at Heathrow over the early May bank holiday weekend has been lifted after aircraft refuelling workers accepted a new pay deal.
A 72-hour walkout had been planned from May 4, potentially grounding as many as 35 airlines, the Unite union had warned.
However, the planned strike was called off yesterday (Monday) after a new and improved pay and conditions offer was accepted from from employer, Aviation Fuel Services (AFS).
The company agreed to improve the pension and sick leave offered to new workers to bring them closer in line with existing staff after negotiations, according to the union.
An AFS spokesperson said: “We are pleased to confirm that the planned industrial action involving AFS from May 4-7 has now been cancelled and normal service will go ahead.”
Unite regional officer Kevin Hall added: “This is a good win for our members at AFS. They do a dangerous, dirty and skilled job and just wanted decent terms from their employer. Their determination is what led to this victory and shows the power of a union.”
Unite general secretary Sharon Graham added: “This is another victory for Unite in its campaign for members’ pay and conditions and workers at AFS should be congratulated for standing firm against their employer and winning these improved terms.”
The agreement came on the first day of a four-day strike by Border Force officers at the airport in a dispute between the Public and Commercial Services Union (PCS) and the Home Office over roster changes.
Unite has also warned of “major disruption” at Heathrow as nearly 800 members of the union have threatened a week of strike action from May 7 in a row over job outsourcing
The London hub insisted that it has “robust contingency plans” in place and anticipates “no impact” on passenger journeys.