(Image: UGC)
Leeds Bradford Airport has responded to plans for further strikes.
The industrial action, involving operational staff, is scheduled to take place at Leeds Bradford Airport between October 16 and 18 and again between October 23 and November 2.
'We are disappointed'
Joselyn Jones, Leeds Bradford Airport’s director of external affairs, said: "We are disappointed by this escalation and do not believe strike action is the right way to resolve the issues that remain under discussion.
"However, we respect the right of employees to participate in lawful industrial action.
"The airport has made a fair and responsible offer that is significantly above inflation and reflects both the current challenging economic conditions and the need to ensure the long-term sustainability of the business."
Ms Jones called the industrial action “aggressive tactics” and said they “serve no purpose and only create uncertainty for the hardworking customers of Leeds Bradford Airport.
"We are disappointed that this approach has been taken at a time when positive discussions are continuing."
Discussions ongoing with Unite
The airport has said that talks are ongoing with Unite, the union representing the workers, and that one of the latest offers has been recommended by the union and is currently out to ballot.
Despite the threat of disruption, Ms Jones said the airport expects to run “near-normal operations” during the strikes.
She said: "Our priority now is to minimise disruption for customers, many of whom have worked hard and saved for important holidays, family visits, and travel opportunities.
"At this stage, we anticipate running near-normal operations during the periods of industrial action."
The airport is committed to making improvements
Ms Jones also highlighted the airport’s improvement plans.
She said: "It is important to remember that Leeds Bradford Airport is undergoing a significant effort to transform and improve its facilities, infrastructure, operations and customer experience, including the ongoing LBA:REGEN project which saw the opening of a new central search zone and staff welfare facilities this month.
She warned that industrial action could have wider impacts.
She said: "Leeds Bradford Airport plays a vital role in connecting Yorkshire to the world.
"Industrial action has the potential to cause inconvenience for thousands of customers and local businesses who rely on those connections."