More than 270 workers employed by in-flight catering firm Do & Co at London Heathrow have called off planned strike action after securing a pay deal worth up to 6.25 percent, Unite the Union announced on 15 October 2026. The workers—who load meals onto long-haul aircraft for carriers including British Airways and Emirates—had voted for industrial action that would have begun next week and risked significant disruption to premium-class service levels. Under the agreement, loaders will receive a 6.25 percent rise, while other grades receive 5 percent plus improved overtime rates and an extra day of company sick pay per year of service. The deal is backdated to 1 April 2026. Unite general secretary Sharon Graham hailed the outcome as proof that “standing together delivers results.” For airlines and travel managers the settlement removes an immediate operational headache. During last year’s Gate Gourmet walk-out, several carriers were forced to substitute cold boxes for hot meals or load catering at continental hubs, adding cost and complexity. Business-class passengers voiced loud complaints at the time, and corporate travel buyers warned of SLA penalties. Although the threat has receded, the episode is a reminder that aviation supply chains remain vulnerable to UK wage disputes amid high inflation. Travel managers should keep contingency plans—such as alternative lounge vouchers or meal allowances—in place throughout the winter schedule. Airlines are likely to press catering subcontractors for longer-term labour-stability clauses when current contracts come up for renewal.
Source: Unite the Union
