Summer strikes at two Scottish airports called off

Strikes at two Scottish airports have been called off after workers accepted an improved pay offer.

Security staff at Aberdeen and Glasgow airports had overwhelmingly backed industrial action over the summer.

But on Monday Unite announced that a deal had been reached and the strikes had been called off.

The union said around 300 workers will see a pay rise of 5% alongside a one-off payment of £500 and an enhancement to the shift allowance of 75p per hour.

There will also be access to double time shift rates for Christmas and New Year’s Day.

The overall pay package boost is estimated to be worth up to 12.8% for some workers at ICTS, Unite said.

The ICTS workers deal with passengers directly in security search areas and process them for flights.

They also cover mobile patrols, control access posts, screen deliveries and deal with emergency services.

Pat McIlvogue, Unite’s lead industrial officer for aviation in Scotland, said: “Unite has successfully negotiated a significant boost to the pay packets of ICTS workers at Aberdeen and Glasgow airports.

“We are pleased that the company came to its senses and got back round the table to make an improved offer which was acceptable to our members. The possibility of strike action at the airports is now over.”

Glasgow Airport and Aberdeen Airport have been approached for comment.