Gatwick Easter weekend strike to disrupt flights and delay passengers

Admin

April 17, 2025
3 min read

Gatwick Easter weekend strike to disrupt flights and delay passengers

If you’re heading abroad this Easter, it’s worth double-checking your travel plans, especially if you’re flying from Gatwick. The Gatwick Easter strike is set to hit the airport over the long weekend, with staff from Red Handling walking out from Good Friday, 18th April, through to the early hours of Tuesday, 22nd April. It’s the latest disruption in a year where holiday travel is already under strain.

The industrial action, involving check-in staff, baggage handlers, and flight dispatchers, has been called by Unite in response to ongoing issues over delayed wages, changes to rest hours between shifts, and problems with the company’s pension scheme. The union says members are being asked to work back-to-back shifts with little recovery time, and in some cases have had pension contributions deducted from wages without being properly matched.

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Passengers travelling with Norwegian, Delta, TAP, and Air Peace are likely to be most affected, with the strike expected to impact around 50 flights a day. Travellers can expect longer queues and possible last-minute cancellations or rescheduling. Gatwick has said contingency plans are in place, but with a busy four-day weekend on the horizon, delays seem likely.

It’s important to know that airlines are not required to offer compensation for delays caused by strikes involving third-party staff. The law considers these situations outside their control. However, if your flight is cancelled or delayed significantly, the airline still has a duty of care, including providing alternative flights, meals, and hotel accommodation if needed.

If you’re flying out of Gatwick this Easter, aim to arrive early, keep an eye on airline communications, and check your travel insurance for any helpful cover. You can also visit the Civil Aviation Authority website for updated advice on your rights.

For more updates on Gatwick airport disruption and travel advice over the Easter period, visit EyeOnLondon. We’d love to hear your views in the comments.