Possible disruption at Luton Airport as six-day strike by DHL workers begins
Passengers warned of potential delays and cancellations at Luton Airport during festive period
Last updated 19th Dec 2025
EasyJet passengers flying from London Luton Airport this Christmas are being warned to expect delays and cancellations as DHL workers begin a six-day strike today.
The strike, which started at 3:00am today, involves around 200 DHL staff who are responsible for check-in desks and baggage handling at the airport.
Possible disruption at Luton Airport
Unite the union says disruption is expected to affect an estimated 410 easyJet flights during the six days, with 71 flights impacted today alone.
Although, Luton Airport says, it is 'operating as normal', as "easyJet continues to operate a full schedule of flights and robust contingency measures are in place".
The action runs until 3:00am on Monday 22nd December, with a second round of strikes planned from 3:00am on Boxing Day, 26th December, to 3:00am on Monday 29th December.
The Civil Aviation Authority forecasted that this Christmas would be the busiest in UK aviation history with millions of passengers expected to travel, leaving concerns over long delays and flight cancellations.
Unite’s regional officer for Luton, Jeff Hodge said: “That is unfortunate. We have tried to reach a resolution, and this has been ongoing since August. We have now found ourselves in this situation where we've got no further option other than to explore industrial action, I'm afraid.
Adding: “We put the blame firmly at DHL’s door”.
A London Luton Airport spokesperson says there has been "an average check-in queue time this morning of four minutes".
Adding, "we continue working closely with easyJet to maintain smooth operations and provide any necessary support. No other airlines at the airport are affected by strike action by DHL employees.”
Pay dispute:
Union members rejected DHL’s offer of a 4.5 per cent pay increase, saying it does not adequately address low pay rates, the cost of living crisis, and rising expenses. The union claims DHL workers at Gatwick earn around £3 an hour more for performing the same roles.
One worker described their financial struggles, saying, “I have the same routine of dedicating myself to a job where I can only cover rent and food. I can’t afford to save to give a better life to my child or spend enough time with my child.”
Unite's general secretary Sharon Graham commented: “DHL and easyJet can comfortably afford to offer these workers an above-inflation pay rise. It is shameful that hardworking members can't afford the basics and they are paid less than their counterparts.
"These companies must stop putting profits over people and come back to the table with a fair pay offer to avoid this disruptive strike, which is entirely of their making."
The dispute comes amid reports that DHL Group’s operating profits increased by 5.7 per cent to €1.4bn in the second quarter of 2025, while easyJet announced anticipated annual profits exceeding £700 million for the year ending in September 2025.
A DHL spokesperson said: "We are deeply disappointed that 57% of Unite members have voted in favour of industrial action at our London Luton Airport operation.
"Our current pay offer is above-inflation and continues to build on four consecutive years of above-inflation pay increases. We remain committed to constructive talks to reach a solution that recognises the value of our colleagues while safeguarding the long-term competitiveness of the operation."