A series of strikes in April and May could disrupt operations at Heathrow airport.
Border Force staff working at Heathrow airport, Europe’s busiest, will walk out for four days from April 29 to May 2 in a dispute over their working conditions. More than 300 members of the PCS union, which represents Border Force officers, working at terminals 2, 3, 4 and 5 will go on strike.
A previous strike, over the Easter school holidays, was called off at the last minute in an attempt to continue negotiations with the Home Office — and this could also happen with this fresh set of walkouts.
In addition, 50 refuellers represented by Unite the union are set to strike for 72 hours starting May 4, which coincides with the first May bank holiday weekend, in a dispute over working conditions.
The refuellers work for AFS, a joint venture between various oil and gas companies including Air BP and Total, work across 35 different airlines including Virgin Atlantic, Delta, Emirates and Air France.
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If you’re travelling soon, here’s what you need to know.
When are the Heathrow airport Border Force strikes?
The Border Force strikes will affect all passenger terminals at Heathrow over four days at the end of April and start of May — just before the first May bank holiday weekend. They are:
• Monday, April 29
• Tuesday, April 30
• Wednesday, May 1
• Thursday, May 2
The PCS union says this four-day strike will be followed by a “work to rule” until May 18, which could also cause delays.
Why are Heathrow workers going on strike?
The reason for the strike is a dispute over a new roster, which the union says will “see around 250 members forced out of their role on passport control”.
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PCS general secretary Fran Heathcote said: “Our members are angry and disappointed at being forced out of their jobs. While not everyone will be affected, the changes will disproportionately hit those who are disabled or have caring responsibilities.
“The Home Office should be doing all it can to retain experienced, trained staff — not lose them by introducing an unworkable new roster system.”
A Home Office spokesperson said: “We are disappointed with the union’s decision to strike but remain open to discussing a resolution with PCS union.
“The changes we are implementing will bring the working arrangements for Border Force Heathrow staff in line with the way staff work at other ports, provide them with more certainty on working patterns, and improve the service to the travelling public.
“Keeping our borders secure remains our top priority and we have robust plans in place to minimise any potential disruption.”
When is the refuelling strike?
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Fifty refuelling staff working for AFS will walk out for 72 hours from Saturday, May 4, in a move that Unite says “could see planes delayed, disrupted and grounded due to their inability to be refuelled” at Heathrow.
The refuellers work across 35 different airlines, including the UK’s Virgin Atlantic.
The row is over the terms and conditions for new staff members, which Unite claims offers them reduced pensions and sickness benefits.
Is Heathrow Express affected by strikes?
Heathrow Express isn’t affected by airport strikes, but check whether there are any rail upgrades or strikes during your travel dates that could affect your journey.
• How could rail strikes impact your holiday plans?
Can I get compensation if a flight is affected by strikes?
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No compensation is due in the case of delays and cancellations caused by strikes involving airport-employed staff; instead it will be considered an “extraordinary circumstance”, which allows airlines not to pay up. However, your airline still has a duty of care.
In the case of delays, this would include providing reasonable refreshments and a means of communication (such as internet data or phone minutes) — although your flight will need to be delayed for at least two hours before this kicks in, and longer for medium and long-haul journeys.
In the case of cancellations, your airline should offer you an alternative flight. But if none are available, a full refund will be issued instead. If you booked your hotel or other experiences separately, the airline is not liable to reimburse you for those elements — this is where a good travel insurance policy can come in useful.
If your flight is part of a package holiday, contact the company listed on your Atol certificate for advice. This will usually be the company that sold you your holiday, or a tour operator.
• Do I get money back if my flight is cancelled?
• Everything you need to know about travel insurance
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