LEEDS Bradford Airport has expressed disappointment after a fresh wave of industrial action was announced by Unite, with strike dates now planned from October 23 to November 2, coinciding with the busy half-term holiday period.
The new walkouts come in addition to previously announced strike action scheduled for October 16 to 18, involving a group of operational employees including air traffic control workers, security staff, customer experience staff and cleaners.
Airport bosses said they were disappointed by what they described as an escalation of the dispute but stressed they respected the right of employees to take lawful industrial action.
In a statement, the airport said it had made a "fair and responsible" pay offer that was significantly above inflation and reflected both current economic pressures and the long-term sustainability of the business.
Leeds Bradford Airport said there were currently updated offers on the table, including one being balloted on by members after being recommended by Unite.
The airport added it remained committed to working with the union and staff representatives to reach a resolution through ongoing discussions.
The airport criticised the decision to announce further strikes during the half-term period, arguing it would create uncertainty for passengers planning holidays and family visits.
However, it said it currently expected to operate "near-normal" services during the industrial action.
Management also highlighted ongoing investment at the airport, including the recently opened central security search zone and new staff welfare facilities as part of its wider £100 million-plus regeneration programme.
Unite says the dispute centres on pay parity with workers at nearby Newcastle Airport, which is also majority owned by Spanish airport operator AENA.
According to the union, a newly qualified air traffic controller at Leeds Bradford Airport earns around £34,000, compared with about £55,000 for the equivalent role at Newcastle Airport.
Unite says many hourly paid workers are earning only slightly above the minimum wage and have struggled with rising living costs.
Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said: "It is wrong that workers at Leeds Bradford Airport are paid far less than those doing the same job at another nearby airport.
"These are essential workers who play a vital role in ensuring the smooth running of the airport and the safety of passengers and deserve fair pay."
The union said hourly paid staff have received an offer which is currently being balloted on, but claimed air traffic controllers have yet to receive a pay offer.
Unite warned that if controllers strike, the airport could face significant disruption because aircraft would be unable to take off or land.
Unite regional officer Neil Whitaker said: "We appreciate those travelling to and from Leeds Bradford Airport will be concerned to hear that there are further strike dates, but the situation is completely the fault of the airport's management.
"It can end this dispute, but that relies on it coming back to the table with a fair deal for our members."
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