WFS’ Heathrow cargo workers approve new pay offer

Worldwide Flight Services’ (WFS) Heathrow cargo workers have voted in favour of a new offer following a dispute over pay.

The cargo handler said that its employees voted “overwhelmingly” in favour of the pay offer, which had removed the threat of strike action.

The union representing the workers 200 said that they had voted to accept a one-year 7.5% pay increase and also a one-off bonus payment of £1,000.

Paul Carmody, managing director – UK, WFS, said: “Having worked hard to find a fair and reasonable solution which protects our customers and avoids any disruption to their businesses, we are pleased that our employees have accepted our revised pay offer and we have been able to avert the threat of strike action at our Heathrow operations.

“We pride ourselves on good employee relations and hope this agreement will enable us to move forward positively and focus on the important task of supporting our customers’ continued recovery after all of the disruption to the aviation industry as a consequence of the pandemic.

“We thank our employees for working with us and for understanding what is required to ensure the best and most sustainable future for our business and all of its stakeholders.”

In April, the workers, represented by union Unite, voted 84% in favour of potential strike action at the airport.

Unite alleged that WFS’ cargo workers were facing a pay freeze for the pay year starting January 2021 while competitors based at the airport were offering pay increases.

Following the vote, Unite regional officer Kevin Hall said: “This rise brings our members into line with similar increases that have been achieved at WFS’ competitors. The package was accepted by a 90 per cent majority of the workers – they are very pleased with the outcome.”