Fresh strike dates announced at Leeds Bradford Airport as half-term 'shutdown' threat escalates amid pay dispute

Unite has announced additional strike dates targeting the October half-term period at Leeds Bradford Airport, with the union escalating pressure over pay as the airport condemns what it calls aggressive tactics from the union. Roughly 130 Unite members retain the potential to paralyse the airport during the peak family holiday period, with industrial action now explicitly threatening a full shutdown. A walkout spanning 23 October to 2 November remains a live threat if the pay dispute is not resolved.

The row is rooted in a stark pay gap: an entry-level air traffic controller at Leeds Bradford earns around £34,000, against £55,000 for the equivalent position at Newcastle — despite Newcastle having a lower cost of living.

Because air traffic controllers must be on duty for any aircraft to land or take off, the airport could face a total shutdown during the peak family holiday period.

Unite general secretary Sharon Graham says workers are paid 'far less' than counterparts doing the same jobs at a nearby airport run by the same Spanish operator, AENA.