Planned strike action at London Gatwick Airport by Red Handling staff has been suspended for an additional two weeks to allow union members to vote on revised working terms.
Approximately 100 employees – including baggage handlers, check-in staff, and flight dispatchers – had been due to strike on four consecutive Sundays starting 11 May. The first strike was already postponed following earlier talks between Red Handling and the Unite union.
The latest suspension comes after Red Handling provided confirmation that outstanding pension contributions had been paid to provider Royal London. The company has also agreed to compensate for any lost interest caused by late payments, and an independent audit will be carried out to help prevent similar issues in future.
Under the terms of the new proposal, staff would receive a bonus payment if wages are paid late – a response to recent delays that left some workers facing financial hardship. The deal also includes guarantees around rest breaks and overtime compensation, following concerns about staff being overworked.
A Unite representative confirmed that the company has made an improved offer and that strike action has been suspended to allow members to vote on the proposals.
Although action scheduled for 18 and 25 May has now been cancelled, the planned strike on 1 June is still due to go ahead, subject to the outcome of the ballot.
Meanwhile, separate industrial action by plane refuellers from Redline Oil Services is still set to proceed in an ongoing dispute over pay. Staff are expected to strike from 16 to 20 May and again from 23 to 27 May – dates which include the busy half-term period.
Gatwick Airport has stated it is working closely with the parties involved to minimise disruption to passengers and hopes a resolution can be reached.
