Commenting on the decision to protect as many jobs as possible by cutting pay, a Heathrow spokesperson said:
“The global impacts of Covid-19 have been sudden and significant, including those on the aviation industry. Heathrow is prioritising the protection of jobs whilst working to keep Britain’s front door safely open for people requiring repatriation and vital medical supplies needed during this crisis. In order to protect as many jobs as possible, we have had to make difficult decisions to reduce our cost base including cancelling executive pay, freezing recruitment and reviewing all capital projects. Last month, our union partners confirmed that their members have agreed on a temporary 10% pay cut in salary and allowances. It is only right that similar pay reductions are taken on by everyone in the business as we fight to ringfence as many jobs in the future and play our part in protecting as many colleagues as possible.”
On background
- Heathrow has informed colleagues they will need to accept the revised terms to avoid making further job cuts.
- The airport will be seeking to agree the pay reduction as part of a collective consultation process. Heathrow will be offering colleagues who do not want to take a pay reduction the option to furlough, followed by voluntary severance.
- Heathrow is keen to hold onto as many jobs at the airport as possible and avoid dismissal or reinstatement.
