Airbus Workers in UK Announce 10-Day Strike Over Pay Dispute
Thousands of Airbus employees in the UK will begin a 10-day strike starting next month after demanding a pay increase they consider fair in light of the rising cost of living. The decision, announced by the union Unite, aims to pressure the company and could affect the production of wings for commercial and military aircraft.
The union, which represents more than 3,000 fitters and technicians at Airbus, reported that 90% of its members voted in favor of the industrial action. The strike will take place on several dates: September 2 and 3, September 10 and 11, as well as additional days starting on the 15th of the same month.
Risk of Production Delays
Unite warned that the work stoppages have the potential to disrupt wing manufacturing, a key component in Airbus aircraft programs, and that this could lead to delivery delays.
The company, however, downplayed the impact. Airbus stated in a release that it does not anticipate significant consequences on year-end deliveries.
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The company emphasized that it has already implemented cumulative pay increases of more than 20% over the past three years, in addition to granting a bonus of £2,644 ($3,569) in April.
Furthermore, Airbus assured that it had presented a proposal for 2025 considered “competitive and fair” and reiterated its willingness to reach an agreement with Unite.
“Our priority remains to find a joint solution with the union that ensures the competitiveness and long-term success of Airbus in the UK,” said Sue Partridge, Head of Airbus UK Commercial Aircraft, in an emailed statement.
Union Demands: Inflation and Fair Pay
The union argues that Airbus’s offer is insufficient in the current context. Unite has called for an adjustment that reflects the rise in inflation, which reached 3.8% in July, its highest level in 18 months.
“Airbus is generating billions in profits; workers deserve fair treatment,” stated Sharon Graham, General Secretary of Unite. “Our members are not asking for favors, but for fairness.”
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