FLIGHTS to and from Jersey could be hit by a strike by baggage handlers in the UK.
On Monday the main union representing staff at handling agent Aviance rejected a 2.5 per cent pay increase following a nationwide ballot.
Members of the Transport & General Workers Union voted by four to one to strike in protest at the pay offer.
Another union, the GMB, is planning to ballot for similar action.
Although the company handle all British Midland, Bmibaby, Aer Lingus, Braathans, Rockhopper and VLM flights at the Airport, it is understood that there are only a few union members working for Aviance in Jersey.
It is not known whether their absence would affect the company’s local operations.
But it is clear that some flights will be affected if the series of one-day strikes goes ahead in the UK.
Aviance handle various airlines at 16 airports around the British Isles, including Aurigny at Stansted and Flybe at Southampton.
Other clients include First Choice, Easyjet, US Airways, Air France, Iberia, Air India and Japan Airways.
Talks between the company and the unions are taking place today in a bid to break the deadlock and avert the stoppages.
Article posted on 7th July, 2004 - 12.00am
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