Service workers at Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) in Charlotte, North Carolina, began a strike Monday morning after an overnight vote in protest of what they describe as “unfair labor practices and poverty wages,” FOX Business reports.
The workers, employed by contractors ABM and Prospect Airport Services, are calling for higher wages and better working conditions, particularly as the airport anticipates record travel numbers during the Thanksgiving holiday.
The strike involves airport service workers who play key roles in the operation of the airport, including cabin cleaners, ramp workers, wheelchair attendants, lavatory workers, and trash truck drivers. Many of these workers earn as little as $12.50 an hour, which is considered insufficient to cover basic living expenses in Charlotte, according to officials from the Service Employees International Union (SEIU).
The union argues that despite their critical roles in ensuring safe, clean, and functioning airports, many workers are forced to hold multiple jobs to make ends meet.
“Airport service workers make holiday travel possible by keeping airports safe, clean, and running,” the SEIU said in a statement.
The strike is expected to continue throughout the Thanksgiving travel period, which the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has predicted could set new records for air travel. Between November 21 and December 2, the airport is expected to see over 1 million passengers depart, a 7% increase from the previous year.
In addition to the walkout, striking workers are organizing a rally at 11 a.m. and a “Strikesgiving” lunch at 1 p.m. on Monday to further highlight their grievances.
Both ABM and Prospect Airport Services have expressed their commitment to addressing worker concerns. ABM stated that it recognizes the important role its employees play, particularly during the busy travel period, and emphasized their efforts to ensure employee safety and satisfaction through open communication channels. Prospect Airport Services similarly stated that they are working to minimize disruptions during the strike.
