Striking Charlotte Airport Workers Could Affect Travel Plans This Week

Service workers at Charlotte Douglas International Airport, one of the nation’s busiest, went on strike this week just as the heaviest travel period of the year kicks off.

News outlets reported that employees with ABM and Prospect Airport Services, who provide trash removal, wheelchair escorts, cabin cleanup and other jobs voted Monday to stay away in pursuit of higher wages. The 700 or so workers are part of the Service Employees International Union, SEIU.

Employees make from $12.50 to $19 an hour, according to SEIU, the Charlotte Observer reported. Some of them planned to hold a “Striksgiving” meal this week at a nearby hotel.

Dorothy Griffin has been working for ABM for seven years and said she provides equipment for people to clean the cabins of planes between flights, the Associated Press reported.

“We’re voting on our strike because we’re not treated fairly, we’re not paid fairly,” said Griffin. “We’re not respected in our jobs. We just want higher and more wages and a little respect.”

The strike could affect travel for thousands of people who fly through Charlotte, especially for those flying American Airlines, news outlets reported. About 1 million passengers are scheduled to leave from the Charlotte airport during Thanksgiving week, the airport said. That’s a significant increase from previous years.

Higher weekly wages for the workers could affect workers’ compensation payroll and premiums for the employers.

Photo: LaQuanda Harvey, a Prospect airport service worker, votes in favor of a strike at Charlotte Douglas International Airport, Friday, Nov. 22, 2024, in Charlotte. (AP Photo/Erik Verduzco)