Drivers working for airline inflight meals firm Gate Gourmet at London City Airport have won “significant improvements” to conditions after threatening strike action, according to the Unite union.
The delivery drivers had been TUPEd over to the business from Dnata in the summer and were relocated 50 miles from their Barking site to Gatwick.
The Unite members were due to walk out later this month and strike over the situation, but the union said that following negotiations, members are now working directly from City Airport.
According to Unite, while working from Gatwick they would have to drive for up to two hours, collect their lorry, drive to City Airport, complete a 10-hour shift then drive the vehicle back to Gatwick before going home.
It said this was causing workers significant fatigue.
Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said: “Fatigue is a very serious issue for workers. It causes severe health problems and can be especially dangerous for those who have to drive heavy vehicles.
“By standing together and threatening a strike, Unite members made their employer see sense and they should be commended for their efforts.”
Workers at Gate Gourmet have also won other improvements to conditions, including a four-week rota and access to airside toilet facilities.
There will also be improved guidance on health and safety, including clarification that drivers will not be expected to work in an unsafe manner to complete loading of flights.
Unite regional officer Nick West said: “Unite is very pleased to have resolved this dispute at Gate Gourmet with a clear win for our members.
“It shows the power of a union and any worker who wants better conditions should join Unite and encourage their colleagues to do the same.”
Gate Gourmet was approached for comment.
