Government needs to prepare for all eventualities, GMB Congress hears.
GMB Union, representing workers across the UK’s aviation and airport industry, has today called for furlough guarantees for workers in the sector.
Delegates at GMB’s annual Congress in Blackpool heard of growing concerns from passenger and cargo aviation workers that spiralling fuel costs could continue to blight the industry.
The intervention saw the union call on Ministers to recognise aviation staff as critical workers and enter discussions about income protection in light of airlines reducing and cutting flights.
Sarah James, GMB Organiser, said:
“Our airports are critical national infrastructure; it’s time our aviation workers were recognised as the essential workers they are.
“The ongoing crisis in the Middle East is already having a direct impact on ground handling workers in the UK, with reduced hours, unpredictable shifts, and growing concerns over job security and income.
“We’re calling on the government to get around the table with industry and GMB to discuss all eventualities, including guarantees of income protection if the fuel crisis deepens”.
Nathan Keightley, GMB's National Ground Handling Convenor, said:
“This crisis is far-reaching, affecting everyone from families booking holidays and people ordering goods online, to businesses that rely on international shipping networks.
"Safeguarding ground handling jobs is crucial to maintaining stability across the wider economy".
