According to Euro Weekly News, baggage handlers employed by Red Handling, who operate several major airlines, are preparing to go on strike from Friday, 18 April to Monday, 22 April. This action could affect up to 50 flights per day, leaving thousands of passengers grounded, including many with plans to fly to popular destinations, such as Portugal, Spain and France.

Members of Unite, the UK’s second-largest trade union, are protesting against delayed payments and missed pension contributions. Unite regional office David Taylor told Euro Weekly News that the treatment of Red Handling staff is a “disgrace”, demanding that the company immediately settle all outstanding pension contributions and compensate employees for any financial loss, as well as reimburse late payments.

Compensation?

Adding to the chaos is the fact that legal experts at SkyRefund have confirmed that passengers impacted by the potential strike would not be entitled to compensation, as the action falls under “extraordinary circumstances” under EU law. This classification means that airlines are not legally required to pay out for delays or cancellations caused by airport staff walkouts.

While some travel insurance policies may offer coverage for holiday cancellations, missed connections, or extended delays, many specifically exclude strikes, reports caution. Travellers are advised to check the fine print of their insurance policy or contact their provider directly before travelling. This could be particularly crucial for families or groups heading abroad for the Easter holidays.

The Easter weekend is already expected to bring crowded terminals and long queues, and the proposed strike may only heighten the disruption. Gatwick Airport has stated that it is working closely with affected airlines to implement contingency plans, though no guaranteed resolution has been reached.

A Gatwick spokesperson stated “We are supporting the airlines impacted, who hold the contracts directly with Red Handling, with their contingency plans and are hopeful a resolution can be reached ahead of the proposed industrial action.”