Around 200 workers employed by ABM Aviation at Stansted Airport have accepted a pay rise of 12.4%.
The staff, who provide special assistance for the airport’s most vulnerable passengers, are members of trade union Unite. As part of the pay deal, they will also receive sick pay for the first time and an increase in overtime rates of 49.4%.
The workers voted in favour of strike action earlier this year as they were unhappy with their rates. However, the deal was secured without the need for industrial action.
An ABM spokesperson said: “We are pleased to have reached an agreement with Unite on pay and conditions that are fair for our employees, clients, and stakeholders; and recognise the dedication our team members put in every day to provide an outstanding travel experience for those with special assistance requirements.”
Sharon Graham, general secretary at Unite, added: “ABM Stansted workers were united in their demand for a better offer and were fully prepared to take strike action to achieve it. Their solidarity was key to winning this excellent deal. As the union for the UK’s aviation workers, Unite is delivering better jobs, pay and conditions at airports and airlines up and down the country.”
Nadine Edwards, regional officer at Unite, said: “This deal is a prime example of why those wanting better wages and working conditions should join Unite and get their colleagues to join too. There is power in a union.”
Benefits that ABM Aviation offers its employees include membership of online benefits scheme LifeWorks, which provides a range of wellbeing and financial support services and discount savings at retailers and restaurants, a bikes-for-work scheme, and incentives to help their local community with ABMCares.
