Pay strike threat to flights

Holidaymakers face more airport misery with summer flights delayed because of a pay dispute involving baggage handlers and check-in staff.

A threat of 24-hour strikes has been timed to coincide with the busiest time of the year as school holidays start at the end of the month.

Gatwick, largest of the airports catering for summer charter flights, could be among the worst hit.

The GMB union warned today that it expects an overwhelming endorsement for its call for more than 2,000 members nationwide to support 24-hour stoppages.

Ballot papers go out today with the result expected on 19 July. By law, the union must give one week's notice of any industrial action meaning, the first stoppages could take place at the start of August.

Employers Aviance, largest of the baggage handling companies and part of transport group Go-Ahead, has offered a 1.5per cent pay rise plus a £150 lump sum.

Ed Blissett, the GMB's aviation officer, said: "We are demanding an increase of three per cent or a £500 lump sum. We have already held an indication-ballot which showed overwhelming support for industrial action. Our members are very angry."