Gatwick Baggage Strike Suspended, But Air Mauritius Flights Still at Risk

Gatwick Airport has called off planned strikes that threatened to cause chaos, impacting Air Mauritius flights, during the half-term travel period.

Trade union Unite announced that baggage handlers from Red Handling, who were set to walk out this Sunday and later this month over a pension dispute, will now suspend their strike actions. This move comes as they prepare for a vote on new working conditions.

However, the relief may be short-lived. Strikes by refuellers from Redline Oil are still scheduled from Sunday until Tuesday, and again from May 23 to 27.

According to the BBC, these strikes could cause delays and disruptions for flights, including those operated by Air Mauritius, Air Peace, Delta, Ethiopian Airlines, Norwegian, and TAP.

Air Mauritius shifted its operations from London Heathrow to London Gatwick in October 2023. Even though the move was expected to significantly boost the national carrier’s flight frequency, increasing from five weekly flights to a daily service to Gatwick, it was not been met with unanimous approval.

A Gatwick spokesperson expressed satisfaction that the baggage handling strikes are off the table for now, while noting they are working to minimize the impact of the refuelling strikes.

EasyJet, which is likely to be most affected by the fuelers’ action, said it has plans in place to keep flights running as scheduled.

For airlines like Air Mauritius, the potential disruption from the refuelling strikes and ongoing negotiations means uncertainty. If fuel supplies are delayed, flights could face delays or cancellations, especially during the busy half-term period.

Unite said it has received proof that Red Handling is paying its pension contributions, which led to the suspension of the strike.

The union also mentioned that further strike action could still happen on June 1, depending on the outcome of a vote on the new proposals.

In short, while some disruptions have been avoided, airlines and passengers should stay alert. The situation at Gatwick remains fluid, and delays could still affect flights, including those of Air Mauritius.

Source: BBC