Leeds Bradford Airport Says Flights Will Run Despite Strike Threat
Leeds Bradford Airport says flights will operate normally this weekend after a planned air traffic control strike was suspended on 13 October. Controllers had been due to walk out from 16 to 18 October, raising fears of a shutdown across Yorkshire. Other airport workers could still strike over pay, however, and further action remains possible during the October half-term period.
What to Check Before Flying This Weekend
- 16–18 October: Air traffic control strike suspended; airport expects normal operations.
- Other staff: Security, check-in, passport control and assistance workers could strike from 3am on 16 October until 6am on 18 October if they reject their offer.
- Deadline: Their vote closes on 14 October.
- Half-term: Air traffic controllers could strike from 23 October to 2 November if they reject the new pay offer.
- Flight status: Check your airline and airport departures.
- If cancelled: Ask your airline about refunds or rerouting and keep receipts for reasonable expenses.
Unite originally announced action involving nearly 130 airport workers, including controllers, security staff, customer service teams and cleaners. The union says pay has fallen behind comparable roles elsewhere, despite negotiations dating back to December 2025. On Tuesday, it suspended the controllers' walkout following a fresh offer. Hourly paid employees are voting separately and could still strike this weekend if they reject their deal.
The airport said on 13 October that its contingency arrangements would allow normal operations regardless of the hourly paid workers' vote. This contrasts with Unite's earlier warning that losing air traffic control staff could stop flights landing and departing. A second strike period, covering 23 October to 2 November, remains possible if controllers reject their offer, although neither side has announced flight cancellations.
Passengers should keep existing reservations rather than cancel simply because of earlier shutdown headlines. If an airline cancels a flight, UK rules require a choice of refund or rerouting, plus care while awaiting alternative travel. Fixed compensation may not be payable for disruption caused by airport staff strikes. Anyone flying during half-term should follow the outcome of the votes and updates from their airline.
