Leeds

Leeds Bradford Airport issue statement as 130 workers prepare to strike

"The airport has made what we believe is a fair and responsible offer."

Clementine Hall Clementine Hall - 12th October 2026

Leeds Bradford Airport is set for a standstill as almost 130 workers are set to take industrial action over pay.

If you're planning on catching a flight from Leeds Bradford Airport, then you may want to double check the date.

The Unite members planning on going on strike are a mixture of air traffic control workers, customer experience staff, security staff and cleaners.

The workers involved in the dispute have recently come out of a four-year pay deal, with some of the departments having fallen behind other airports in equivalent roles.

Pay talks have been happening since December 2025, with the airport's formal offer not going far enough to address the lack of pay parity.

Strikes will take place from 03:00 Friday 16 October to 06:00 Sunday 18 October for hourly paid staff and from 06:00 Friday 16 October to 06:00 Sunday 18 October for air traffic control workers.

Strike will mean the entire airport will shut down.

Since the announcement, Leeds Bradford Airport have issued a statement: "Leeds Bradford Airport acknowledges the proposed industrial action due to take place between 16-18 October involving a group of operational colleagues.

"We respect the right of employees to participate in lawful industrial action. However, we are disappointed by this and do not believe strike action is the right way to resolve the issues still under discussion.

"The airport has made what we believe is a fair and responsible offer that is significantly above inflation and reflects both current economic conditions and the need to ensure the long-term sustainability of the business.

"Our priority now is to minimise disruption for customers, many of whom have worked hard and saved for important holidays, family visits and business travel. At this stage we anticipate running near-normal operations during the period.

"Leeds Bradford Airport plays a vital role in connecting Yorkshire to the world. Industrial action has the potential to cause inconvenience for thousands of customers and local businesses who rely on those connections.

"We remain committed to constructive dialogue with Unite and would welcome continued discussions aimed at reaching a resolution. Our focus remains on serving Yorkshire, supporting our colleagues and maintaining safe airport operations."

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