Thousands of Airbus workers in the United Kingdom will go on a 10-day strike next month, demanding better pay, the trade union Unite announced on Wednesday.
Unite, which represents more than 3,000 aircraft fitters and engineers employed at Airbus, warned that the strike could disrupt the production of aircraft wings, according to Reuters.
Why Are Airbus Workers Striking?
Unite revealed that 90% of its members voted in favor of industrial action after Airbus failed to make an improved pay offer. The strike is scheduled for September 2-3 and September 10-11, with more dates expected to follow.
The disruption could affect commercial and military aircraft programs, potentially delaying deliveries.
Airbus Responds to Strike Threat
Airbus downplayed concerns over the strike, saying there was “no current concern about the impact on year-end deliveries.”
“We are not currently concerned about the impact on year-end deliveries,” Airbus stated.
The company said it had offered a “competitive and fair” pay deal for 2025, highlighting that workers had received over 20% pay increases in the past three years, along with a bonus payment of £2,644 ($3,569) in April, according to Reuters.
Union Demands Pay Reflecting Inflation
Unite insists that Airbus should make an offer that reflects rising inflation and the cost-of-living crisis. Recent data shows that UK inflation stood at 3.8% in July, the highest in 18 months.
Sharon Graham, Unite’s General Secretary, criticized Airbus for failing to meet workers’ expectations despite strong profits:
“Our members are simply seeking fairness, not favours,” Graham said.
Airbus Management Seeks Resolution
Sue Partridge, Airbus UK’s country manager for commercial aircraft, emphasized that the company is focused on resolving the dispute while ensuring long-term competitiveness:
“We are prioritising the need to resolve with the trade union which would ensure long-term competitiveness and the success of Airbus in the UK.”
