More than 3,000 aircraft fitters and engineers at Airbus are to take part in 10 days of strike action after voting overwhelmingly in favour of industrial action in a row over pay.
Unite, the UK’s largest union, confirmed that its members had backed the move by 90% in a ballot, with strikes set to begin on 2 September and spread across three weeks.
The walkouts are expected to disrupt production of wings for Airbus’s commercial and military aircraft programmes, potentially delaying deliveries and adding strain to the global aerospace supply chain.
Unite said it remained committed to reaching a negotiated settlement but accused the company of failing to table an acceptable offer.
The union is calling on Airbus to return to talks with a package that reflects the rising cost of living, recognises the workforce’s highly specialised skills, and ensures the company can continue to deliver aircraft on schedule.
Airbus has not yet commented publicly on the planned strikes.
Sharon Graham, Unite general secretary said: “Airbus is generating billions in profit; workers deserve a fair deal. Our members are simply seeking fairness not favours. “Airbus workers have the total support of their union in this dispute.”
Rhys McCarthy, Unite National Officer added: “The pay offer simply doesn’t reflect the money Airbus is making or the current cost of living crisis.
“We remain ready to negotiate, but we won’t allow our members to be short changed. “If Airbus won’t return with a better offer, we’ll be on picket lines in September.”
