13 Dec 2022 | 04:59 PM UTC
UK: Unionized Border Force staff plan strike action at airports and ports Dec. 23-31
Unionized Border Force staff plan strike action at airports and ports across the UK Dec. 23-31. Travel security delays likely.
Event
Unionized Border Force staff plan to strike at airports and ports across the UK Dec. 23-31. Participating workers are affiliated with the Public and Commercial Service (PCS) union, which represents civil servants, including 75 percent of border security staff, and are demanding increased pay. Notably, staff affiliated with the ISU, a union which represents borders, immigration, and customs workers, will continue to work. The government is training military personnel to conduct passport checks during the strike. The affected locations are:
Birmingham Airport (BHX)
Cardiff Airport (CWL)
Gatwick Airport (LGW)
Glasgow Airport (GLA)
Heathrow Airport (LHR) - Terminals 2, 3, 4, and 5
Manchester Airport (MAN)
Port of Newhaven
Unless averted, the strike will probably cause delays and disruptions at entry and exit passport checkpoints given the high number of travelers over the Christmas and New Year holiday period. Complex checks, including those involving visas, will likely exacerbate delays.
Advice
Allow extra time for airport and port check-in and security control. Ensure all passport and visa documentation is in order and prepare for longer lines at passport checks. Check the latest situation with travel operators and follow local travel and security advice. Use electronic passport gates when possible.
