Glasgow Airport Strike to Hit Summer Flights and Holiday Plans
Staff at Glasgow Airport will stage a 48-hour strike starting at 6 a.m. on 24 July, ending just before 6 a.m. on 26 July. The industrial action was confirmed by Unite the Union after workers rejected a 4 percent pay offer. Employees involved in the walkout say the proposed increase fails to address rising living costs and does not reflect the airport’s financial performance over the past year.
The strike is expected to affect multiple operational roles across the airport. According to Unite, Glasgow Airport Limited offered the least competitive pay increase among employers at the site. Airport management argues the raise is more than enough to keep up with prices, and they’re trying to keep the situation from turning travellers’ plans upside down. Staff expected to take part in the strike include:
- Engineers responsible for maintaining technical systems
- Airside support staff involved in aircraft handling
- Terminal ambassadors assisting passenger flow
- Managerial staff overseeing daily operations
The potential effect on services remains difficult to predict, as staffing levels will vary during the strike period.
We have tabled an offer of 4 per cent, which represents an above-inflation pay increase. Despite reaching agreement with 80 per cent of our staff across AGS Airports over pay, our offer has been rejected by 75 members of staff at Glasgow airport who, through Unite, have informed us they wish to embark on strike action.
Travellers flying during the affected dates should plan for delays, particularly at security checks and baggage collection. Staffing shortages may slow passenger flow at key service points, and some flight schedules may be adjusted at short notice. Those connecting to other destinations through Glasgow could also face complications, especially on routes with minimal turnaround times or limited alternative options.
At the same time, a separate dispute involving over 100 Swissport ground staff at the airport is still unresolved. Unite is conducting a ballot on a revised offer, with results expected on 14 July. If rejected, this could lead to further strike action later in the summer. The overlap of disputes poses added risks for passengers travelling during one of the busiest periods of the year.
When planes are packed and schedules tight, even a minor hiccup behind the scenes can cause a ripple effect that messes up a lot of travel plans fast. Travellers are advised to check their flight status regularly, allow extra time at the airport, and prepare for possible changes. The situation highlights how local labour disputes can significantly impact wider travel plans across regions during the summer rush.