Strikes called off at Gatwick Airport

Monday, 14 September 2026 13:14

By Philip Keeler

Taxiway, Gatwick by N Chadwick, CC BY-SA 2.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0>, via Wikimedia Commons

Planned strikes by more than 200 workers at London Gatwick Airport have been suspended after a new pay offer was put forward.

The industrial action involved 220 Unite members employed by Wilson James, who assist passengers getting on and off aircraft at the airport.

Workers had been due to walk out from 17 to 21 September, with a second period of strike action planned from 23 to 26 September.

However, Unite says the action has now been suspended while members vote on a new pay offer following negotiations with the company.

The union said the latest proposal was an improvement on the previous offer and that workers would now be given the opportunity to decide whether to accept it.

Unite regional officer Ben Davis said: “After pay talks, Wilson James has come forward with a new, improved offer. In good faith, we have paused industrial action to allow members to have their say on whether they accept this.”

The planned walkouts had raised the prospect of disruption for passengers requiring assistance at Gatwick later this month.

A decision on whether any further industrial action will take place will depend on the outcome of the ballot.

Get the latest ALERTS for BREAKING NEWS in the SOUTH on your phone by downloading the V2 RADIO APP today!

V2VOUCHERS.CO.UK is offering half-price deals on a wide range of experiences across the South, from meals out at local restaurants to tickets for some of the region’s biggest events.

Amazing HALF PRICE local offers! Save money and get a great deal at V2vouchers.co.uk

More from Local News

Two men charged following protest in Portsmouth

Two men arrested during a protest in Portsmouth at the weekend have now been charged with offences.
Two men face sentencing for exposure offences in West Sussex

Two men have been convicted of exposing themselves in public in two separate incidents in West Sussex.
Witness appeal after pedestrian seriously injured in A29 collision near Bognor Regis

Police are appealing for witnesses after a 21-year-old pedestrian was seriously injured in a collision on the A29 near Bognor Regis.
Almost 200 improvement projects underway across Sussex Partnership NHS sites

Almost 200 improvement projects are underway across Sussex Partnership NHS Foundation Trust as part of a programme aimed at creating better working environments for staff and more welcoming spaces for patients and visitors.
People in the South to get quicker pharmacy treatment for migraines, acne and other conditions

People across the South will soon be able to receive treatment for a wider range of common health conditions directly from participating community pharmacies.
Hampshire MP calls for action after major air traffic disruption

A Hampshire MP has demanded action after the latest air traffic control failure caused chaos for travellers.
More than £470,000 could be invested in Sompting football facilities

More than £470,000 could be invested in Sompting Recreation Ground to improve football facilities and help secure its future as a community sports hub.
LISTEN: MP for Chichester, Jess Brown-Fuller, to lead justice debates at Liberal Democrat conference in Brighton

Chichester MP Jess Brown-Fuller is set to play a prominent role when the Liberal Democrats hold their autumn conference in Brighton later this month.
West Sussex County Council pays dad £2,800 for late SEND plan

West Sussex County Council has paid £2,800 to a father after taking 14 months to issue an Education, Health & Care Plan for his daughter.
Crawley MP welcomes new retail scheme aimed at helping young people into work

Crawley MP Peter Lamb has welcomed a new partnership between the Government and major retailers aimed at helping young people gain experience and move into employment.