Unite is balloting around 170 ICTS workers at Glasgow Airport after a rejected pay offer. This page breaks down what a strike could mean for summer travel, how events like the Commonwealth Games and World Cup could be affected, and what happens next depending on the ballot outcome.
Unite says the proposed pay deal for ICTS central search roles is unacceptable and wants a better offer. With around 170 workers involved, the ballot could lead to active strike action if the mandate is approved.
Disruptions could affect security screening, processing, and related passenger flow at Glasgow Airport. Any withdrawal of labour from ICTS roles that handle central search could slow queues and baggage processing during a busy summer.
Glasgow is hosting events this summer, so a strike among ICTS workers could slow security checks and passenger processing during peakEvent periods, potentially delaying arrivals, departures, and transfers for athletes, officials, and spectators.
If the ballot passes, ICTS workers could move to strike action as early as the next phase of industrial action, which would require negotiation or a return to talks to resolve. If the ballot fails, management and the union may continue negotiations toward a new pay proposal.
Yes. Any industrial action at critical security and processing points can create delays. Passengers should keep checking flight times, allow extra journey time to the airport, and stay updated with airline and airport notices in the run-up to peak summer periods.
Travelers should monitor official airport and airline announcements, aim for early arrival, pack thoughtfully to avoid delays at security, and consider flexible travel plans if a strike action appears likely during the summer window.
Workers at Glasgow Airport are being balloted for strike action