Prestwick Airport strike called off as 400 workers win pay rise

Unite members at Prestwick Airport had been preparing to strike, but an improved offer led to averting the threat of strike action and acceptance of the deal.

The pay agreement includes a wage increase of between 5.1% and 8% for most staff, an additional day of annual leave for this year, improved shift allowances and higher pension contributions.

Sharon Graham, general secretary of Unite, said: "Unite has delivered another wage win in the aviation industry this time for our members at Prestwick airport. The deal backed by our members will see significant increases in pay, allowances and better working conditions."

The agreement also guarantees the real living wage of £13.45 per hour for all permanent staff.

Unite members at the airport include security staff, firefighters, airfield operators, ground crew, ground handling, cargo, customer services staff and cleaners.

The airport primarily serves as a cargo hub but also handles military, domestic and international commercial flights.

A strike ballot was due to be concluded this week over a previous failure to make an acceptable pay offer to the airport workers.

Siobhan McCready, industrial officer at Unite, said: "The Prestwick Airport deal brings us much closer to achieving proper recognition for shift work, unsocial hours and the incredible flexibility our members show to keep the business growing."

The union said the agreement marks progress, but further improvements are still needed.

Unite said it intends to continue pushing for better terms to create the "best possible working environment" for staff.