ABM workers at Stansted Airport have accepted a two-year pay deal, ending the threat of strike action by staff who escort passengers with disabilities through the airport and onto flights. Around 100 members of staff backed the agreement, which was reached after weeks of dispute over pay and conditions.
The first year of the deal includes a 3.8% uplift backdated to November 2025, plus an additional 1% from this month. In the second year, the workers will receive a 3.5% pay rise and a £350 pro-rata payment. The settlement means strike action planned for 3-6 May will not go ahead, after a previous walkout set for 17-20 April was postponed for a pay consultation.
The dispute centred on ABM staff who say their work carries more responsibility and pressure than their pay reflected. The workers had argued they were paid below the London living wage of £14.80, as they helped passengers with disabilities move through the airport and board flights. They were balloted for strike action in March, giving the union the leverage that ultimately pushed both sides back to the table.
An ABM spokesperson said the company had reached a resolution in collaboration with Unite and that it was pleased the deal works in the best interests of team members and passengers. The company also said it recognised the work its staff do every day and was delighted to offer a pay increase that reflected both that value and the cost of living.
Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said workers at ABM won themselves a better pay offer by standing together and having a mandate for industrial action. Regional officer Steve Edwards said the union was glad the employer recognised the importance of the job after extensive negotiations, and said the deal guarantees pay rises for two years.
The outcome removes an immediate risk for passengers at one of the country’s busiest airports, but it also underlines how quickly disruption can build when essential staff say their pay no longer matches the job. For ABM’s workers, the result is a pay settlement that at least closes the gap for now.
