Luton easyJet passengers are facing Christmas disruption as DHL check in and baggage handling staff ballot for strike action over pay. Around 200 workers are being balloted over an inadequate pay offer from DHL of 3.6 per cent from 1 October 2025 and a further 0.6 per cent from 1 January 2026. This offer is a real terms pay cut as the current RPI inflation rate stands at 4.5 per cent.
Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said: “DHL and easyJet are both extremely profitable companies and can fully afford to put forward a fair pay offer. Our members employed by DHL at Luton airport will receive maximum support from Unite to achieve a reasonable pay deal.”
In the second quarter of 2025, DHL Group’s operating profits increased by 5.7 per cent to €1.4bn.
Meanwhile, easyJet has announced it expects profits of more than £700 million in the 12 months to September 2025. The workers are balloting until 4 December. Strike action would severely impact easyJet’s Luton operations.
Unite regional officer Jeff Hodge said: “Strike action can still be avoided but that will require an acceptable offer being tabled by DHL.” An easyJet spokesperson said: “While there is currently no planned strike action by DHL staff at Luton airport, we urge DHL and Unite to reach an agreement as soon as possible to ensure there is no impact on passengers.”
A spokesperson for DHL Supply Chain said: “We are disappointed that Unite has announced its intention to ballot members at Luton airport over the pay offer. We remain open for meaningful talks and hope to reach a satisfactory outcome for both parties.”