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12
Oct
Leeds Bradford Airport pledges to 'minimise disruption' as strike looms
Leeds Bradford Airport has pledged to “minimise disruption” as almost 130 workers are set to strike over pay.
Unite the union announced last week that a mixture of air traffic control workers, customer experience, security and cleaning staff are set to walk out this month and in November.
Workers are set to take part in the first wave of industrial action between October 16 and October 18.
In a statement issued today (October 12), the airport said it was “disappointed” with the escalation and that it believed the strike action was not the “right way to resolve the issues that remain under discussion”.
A spokesperson added that LBA would now make it a priority to “minimise disruption” for its customers.
They said:
The airport has made a fair and responsible offer that is significantly above inflation and reflects both the current challenging economic conditions and the need to ensure the long-term sustainability of the business.
Importantly, we currently have updated offers on the table, one of which is out to ballot having been recommended by the union. We remain committed to working with Unite and our colleagues to reach a fair resolution through meaningful discussion with the remaining area.
These aggressive tactics serve no purpose and only create uncertainty for the hardworking customers of Leeds Bradford Airport who are looking forward to enjoying time away with family and friends during the upcoming half-term break. We are disappointed that this approach has been taken at a time when positive discussions are continuing.
Our priority now is to minimise disruption for customers, many of whom have worked hard and saved for important holidays, family visits, and travel opportunities. At this stage, we anticipate running near-normal operations during the periods of industrial action.
It comes as Unite said workers in some the departments at the airport had fallen behind other airports in equivalent roles.
Pay talks have been ongoing since December 2025, but the union said the airport's formal offer did not go far enough to address the lack of pay parity.
Neil Whitaker, Unite regional officer, said:
We know people who have flights planned to and from Leeds Bradford Airport will be concerned to hear of industrial action, however our members have no choice but to strike.
The airport is profitable, passenger numbers are growing and our members are a major part of its success. They deserve a fair pay rise, and management must come back to the table to deliver this.
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