Q. What industrial action is taking place?
A. PCS Union has advised that a small number of Aerodrome Flight Information Officers (AFISOs) and administration/support staff at the following airports and Head Office have been asked to take part in strike action on Wednesday 1 February 2023, commencing at 00:01 hours and concluding at 23:59 hours.
- Barra
- Inverness
- Kirkwall
- Stornoway
This is part of a national strike organised by PCS Union which will affect UK-based Border Force staff.
Border Force provide services for international flights at HIAL Airports and have advised that robust plans have been put in place to minimise delays. However, they have advised passengers planning to travel on 1 February to be prepared for possible disruption and to plan ahead.
Q: Will airports be open on the days of strike?
A: Barra, Inverness, Kirkwall, and Stornoway airports and will remain open as normal.
All 11 HIAL airports will remain open on Wednesday 1 February 2023.
We do not anticipate this action will cause disruption to passengers. However, passengers should check with their airlines if they are due to travel to or from these airports on 1 February 2023.
Q. What will I do if I’ve booked a flight on a strike day?
A. Any passengers booked to travel on 1 February 2023 should contact their airline provider for information relating to their flight.
Q. Will the strike action have an impact on travel for medical appointments?
A. We do not anticipate any disruption for passengers, However, if you have a medical appointment scheduled that requires you to travel on 1 February 2023 to or from Barra, Inverness, Kirkwall, and Stornoway airports, you should contact your GP, hospital, or clinic to discuss your appointment arrangements.
Q. What are my rights with regard to compensation claims in the event of industrial action?
A. Passengers should contact their airlines and travel insurance company in relation to compensation and claim for costs.
Information on passenger rights in relation to delays and cancellations to flights is available on the Civil Aviation Authority website.