Heathrow refuellers' bank holiday weekend strike cancelled, says Unite the union

Strike action by refuelling workers at Heathrow Airport has been off, days before walkouts were due to take place.

A 72-hour action by members of Unite was due to begin on Saturday May 4, “potentially grounding as many as 35 airlines”.

The union said workers have accepted a new and improved pay and conditions offer by employer AFS. It said AFS has agreed to improve the pension and sick leave offered to new workers to bring them closer in line with existing staff.

Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said: "This is another victory for Unite in its campaign for members' pay and conditions and workers at AFS should be congratulated for standing firm against their employer and winning these improved terms."

A spokesperson for AFS said: “We are pleased to confirm that the planned industrial action involving AFS from May 4-7 has now been cancelled and normal service will go ahead.”

Join our new WhatsApp Community to get the latest news from across London directly to your phone

Unite regional officer Kevin Hall said: "This is a good win for our members at AFS.

“They do a dangerous, dirty and skilled job and just wanted decent terms from their employer.

“Their determination is what led to this victory and shows the power of a union."