Edinburgh Airport Strike Averted: Workers Win Massive Pay Raise and Better Benefits After Intense Negotiations

Published on September 19, 2025

A major dispute at Edinburgh Airport has been resolved after OCS Group workers, who were planning to go on strike, overwhelmingly accepted a revised pay offer. The agreement marks a significant breakthrough after workers initially rejected a proposed pay rate that they considered insufficient, which led to the planned strike action being called off. Unite the Union, which represents the workers, confirmed the acceptance of the new pay deal on Friday, providing much-needed relief to both employees and travelers.

OCS Group Workers’ Pay Dispute

More than 100 airport support staff at Edinburgh Airport, employed by OCS Group, were planning a series of 48-hour stoppages throughout September to protest against a £12.60 per hour pay proposal, which they described as a “poverty pay offer.” The workers, who assist passengers with reduced mobility, including providing wheelchair and ambulift services, had expressed their dissatisfaction with the original offer. A 90% majority of the workers had voted in favor of strike action, highlighting the strength of their resolve to secure a fair pay deal.

However, after intense negotiations led by Unite the Union, an improved offer was put on the table. The revised deal includes a 6.1% increase in the hourly rate starting January 1, 2025, with an additional 5% increase in January 2026. The agreement also features an improvement to the overtime rate and enhancements to the company’s sick pay scheme. These changes were welcomed by the workers, who had been steadfast in their pursuit of better wages and working conditions.

A Positive Resolution for Both Workers and Travelers

The improved deal has been hailed as a victory for the workers and a positive resolution for Edinburgh Airport operations. With strike action now averted, OCS Group workers will continue to support passengers at the airport without the disruption that would have been caused by the planned stoppages. The union’s success in negotiating a better deal highlights the importance of worker solidarity and the effectiveness of collective bargaining in securing fair compensation.

Unite General Secretary, Sharon Graham, praised the workers’ determination and emphasized that their strong stance had forced the company to improve the original offer. The improved deal not only addresses workers’ immediate concerns but also sets a precedent for other airport staff who may be facing similar wage issues.

Union’s Role in Securing Better Pay and Conditions

The revised pay deal represents a significant improvement in terms and conditions compared to the initial offer made by OCS Group. Carrie Binnie, the Unite Industrial Officer, commented that the workers had remained resolute throughout the dispute. She explained that the new deal provides a “timely boost” to the workers and improves their pay and benefits, offering better financial security for the workers who play a vital role in airport operations.

The agreement not only increases hourly wages but also brings about long-term benefits, particularly the enhancements to the sick pay scheme and the better overtime rates. These changes are seen as a significant improvement to the terms and conditions of OCS Group workers and reflect the value placed on their contributions to the airport’s operations.

The Role of OCS Group Workers at Edinburgh Airport

OCS Group workers at Edinburgh Airport play an essential role in ensuring that passengers with reduced mobility can access the services and support they need to navigate the airport comfortably. Their work includes assisting with wheelchairs, providing ambulift services, and ensuring a smooth journey for those who need extra assistance. The workers’ contributions are critical to maintaining the high standards of service that Edinburgh Airport is known for, and the newly secured pay increase will reflect the value placed on their vital work.

The airport’s commitment to providing top-notch customer service is supported by the efforts of its dedicated staff, including the OCS Group workers. With the pay dispute now resolved, these workers will be able to continue offering their essential services without the added stress of uncertain pay and working conditions.

Looking Ahead: Further Negotiations and Potential Challenges

While the dispute at Edinburgh Airport has been resolved for now, the outcome of this negotiation serves as a reminder that wage and working condition issues are ongoing concerns in the aviation and service sectors. Workers at other airports and within different industries may be inspired by the success of Unite the Union in securing a better deal for its members. The positive resolution at Edinburgh Airport could serve as a model for future pay negotiations across the UK’s airports.

However, challenges remain as the cost of living continues to rise and workers demand fair wages that reflect the importance of their roles. The OCS Group workers’ successful action in Edinburgh highlights the importance of solidarity and the potential for collective action to create meaningful change in the workplace.

Conclusion: A Victory for Workers and a Boost for Edinburgh Airport

The OCS Group workers’ decision to accept the improved pay offer represents a significant win for workers’ rights and a step toward better pay and conditions for airport staff across the UK. The resolution of the dispute means that Edinburgh Airport can continue to operate smoothly, with workers assured of improved wages and benefits.

For Ryanair and other stakeholders at the airport, the avoidance of strike action ensures that services continue without disruption. For the workers, the 6.1% pay rise, improvements to overtime rates, and better sick pay provide them with financial security and recognition for their hard work. This outcome showcases the power of union representation and the importance of fair pay for workers who contribute significantly to the functioning of key industries like aviation.