Ryan FowlerPassengers on easyJet and TUI flights from Gatwick Airport will not have access to food or drink services due to a strike by Dnata Catering staff over pay disputes, according to Unite, the UK’s primary union. The strike is a response to Dnata’s removal of a shift allowance last April, which has resulted in a pay cut for workers ranging from £1,500 to £2,000.
Unite has refuted claims by Dnata, an Emirates Group-owned inflight catering company, that the union agreed to the shift allowance removal in exchange for a night shift premium. Sharon Graham, Unite’s general secretary, stated: “Our members have run out of patience with Dnata’s double-dealing and blatant dishonesty. Ending the shift allowance in return for a night premium was never part of the deal and the company knows that.”
The strike, involving about 100 workers such as HGV drivers and warehouse staff, is set to take place from 26-29 April, 3-6 May, and 10-13 May. If the dispute is not resolved, the action may intensify.
Dnata provides catering for all easyJet flights from Gatwick, where the airline operates up to 200 flights daily during peak periods. The strike’s timing suggests a significant impact on easyJet’s revenue, as onboard sales of snacks and drinks are a major source of income.
Unite regional officer Dominic Rothwell condemned Dnata’s actions, saying: “It beggars belief that the company thought it could take its workers for fools and deal with them in such an underhand manner.” He called for Dnata to re-engage in discussions with Unite and offer a resolution acceptable to the members.
