Gatwick Airport, one of the busiest airports in the UK, is preparing for significant disruptions between April 18 and April 22, 2025, as over 100 ground handling staff employed by Red Handling go on strike. The workers involved in the industrial action include baggage handlers, check-in agents, and flight dispatchers who are responsible for the smooth operation of many flights at the airport.
The strike, organized by the Unite union, comes as a result of ongoing disputes between Red Handling and the workers over several key issues: unpaid pensions, delayed wages, unsafe working conditions, and alleged breaches of labor laws concerning shift patterns. The workers have raised concerns about their pension contributions not being made, as well as long-standing issues with pay delays and unfair working hours, which they argue have left them in difficult financial situations.
Impact on Flights: The disruption is expected to affect approximately 50 flights per day at Gatwick Airport, leading to delays, cancellations, and potential baggage handling problems. Several international airlines that rely on Red Handling for their ground services will be affected, including Norwegian Air, Delta Airlines, TAP Air Portugal, and Air Peace.
The strike action coincides with one of the busiest travel periods of the year—over the Easter weekend—adding additional pressure to the already high volume of passengers traveling through Gatwick. Travelers should expect longer queues at check-in counters, security, and baggage claim areas, and should prepare for possible delays and cancellations.
Union’s Perspective: The Unite union, representing the striking workers, has defended the strike as necessary to protect the rights of workers and ensure fair working conditions. They argue that the workers’ demands are justified, and that Red Handling has failed to address these concerns despite multiple attempts to engage in discussions.
Unite’s regional officer, speaking on behalf of the workers, emphasized that the industrial action is not a decision the workers took lightly but was essential to ensure their demands for fair pay, proper pensions, and improved working hours are met. The union has made it clear that they are prepared to continue with the strike if a resolution is not reached soon.
What Travelers Should Expect:
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Flight Delays and Cancellations: Passengers traveling through Gatwick Airport during the strike period should be prepared for the possibility of flight delays and cancellations. Airlines are already working on contingency plans to manage the impact, but some flights may still be affected, especially those operated by the airlines relying on Red Handling for ground services.
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Longer Wait Times: With fewer ground staff available, travelers can expect longer wait times at check-in counters, security checks, and baggage handling areas. This could lead to extended processing times for both departing and arriving passengers, so it is advisable to arrive well in advance of flight times.
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Care Provisions: In accordance with regulations, airlines are required to provide certain care provisions for passengers affected by delays and cancellations, such as meals, accommodations, and rebooking options. However, since this strike is considered an “extraordinary circumstance” under UK aviation laws, airlines are not legally obligated to provide compensation for missed connections or travel inconveniences. Passengers are still encouraged to request rebooking or alternative arrangements if their flights are disrupted.
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Travel Insurance: Travelers with travel insurance are advised to check their policy to see if disruptions caused by strikes are covered. For those who have not yet purchased insurance, it may still be a good idea to consider coverage, especially for extended delays. Travelers should retain receipts for any expenses incurred due to the disruption (such as meals or overnight stays), as these could be reimbursed by the insurance provider.
Advice for Passengers:
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Check with Your Airline: Passengers should stay updated with their airline’s latest announcements regarding flight status, as changes may occur at short notice. Many airlines have mobile apps and websites where real-time information is provided, and some may also offer options for rebooking or refunds.
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Arrive Early: Given the anticipated longer queues and the possibility of delays, travelers are advised to arrive at the airport at least 3 hours before their scheduled departure time, especially for international flights.
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Consider Alternative Airports: For those traveling on flexible tickets, it may be worth considering alternative airports or routes to avoid the disruptions at Gatwick.
Gatwick Airport’s Response: In response to the strike, Gatwick Airport has been working closely with airlines and Red Handling to minimize the impact on travelers. The airport has stated that it is implementing contingency plans to manage the disruption, though they expect some challenges during the strike period. The airport management has urged passengers to check their flight status in advance and to remain patient during the high-stress period.
Conclusion: The strike at Gatwick Airport between April 18 and April 22, 2025, is expected to cause significant disruption to air travel, with hundreds of passengers potentially affected. With the ongoing dispute centered around unpaid pensions, delayed wages, and poor working conditions, the strike highlights the challenges faced by airport workers in securing fair treatment. Passengers traveling through Gatwick during this period should stay informed, plan ahead, and be prepared for potential delays and cancellations.