The government has warned people travelling this Christmas to expect disruption as airport staff walk out this week. The Public and Commercial Service (PCS) union has announced Civil Service industrial action that will impact border force services over the festive period.
Strikes will begin from tomorrow (Friday December 23) and will carry on through December 24, 25, and 26 (until about 7am). They'll start up again on December 28 and will continue through to December 29, 30 and 31.
Manchester Airport is among those affected by the industrial action, as well as Birmingham Airport, Cardiff Airport, Gatwick Airport, Glasgow Airport, Heathrow Airport – Terminals 2,3,4,5 and Port of Newhaven. The UK government has said it is making preparations ahead of the strikes, including training military personnel to step in and keep the border safe.
Passengers have been warned to expect delays and disruption, including longer wait times. They've also been advised to check with their travel agents, tour operators and airlines or carriers about possible disruptions to their journey prior to travelling.
Airport eGates will continue to function as normal, the government said in a statement, those eligible to use them are encouraged to do so as the 'quickest and most efficient way to pass through border control.'
Steve Dann, Border Force Chief Operating Officer, said: "We apologise for any disruption caused to travellers entering the UK. Border Force’s number one priority to is keep our citizens safe and borders secure. We are working together with partners across the travel industry to ensure we can continue to meet critical demand and support the flow of passengers and goods through our border.
"During the periods of industrial action, travellers should be prepared for disruption. We encourage everyone to check the latest advice from your operators before travelling."
The industrial action from border force agents is the latest in a long-standing series of strikes, including from nurses, paramedics, rail workers and postal workers. Disputes over pay, jobs and working conditions are behind the action sweeping industries across the UK.
Manchester Airport has issued a statement regarding the strike action, saying that it doesn’t “anticipate the need for cancellations” and that travellers should not need to change their plans.
A spokesperson for the airport said: “Following the announcement of industrial action by UK Border Force (UKBF) staff at several UK airports - including Manchester - we have been working closely with the Home Office and others to understand the impact this will have, minimise disruption to our operation and support the safety and wellbeing of colleagues and passengers.
“The industrial action will take place on 23, 24, 25, 26 and 28, 29, 30 and 31 December, during which time we will continue to operate our full flight schedule. We do not anticipate the need for cancellations and passengers do not need to change their travel plans, unless advised otherwise by their airline.
“There is a likelihood that waiting times at the Border will be – at times – longer than usual on these days, and we will provide whatever support we can to ensure passengers’ arrival back into Manchester is as smooth as possible.”
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