Overview of the Strike

In a significant move, airport workers at Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT), one of the busiest hubs in the U.S., embarked on a strike on Monday morning, coinciding with the start of the Thanksgiving travel season. Represented by the Service Employees International Union (SEIU), the striking service workers include cabin cleaners, wheelchair attendants, lavatory workers, trash truck drivers, and ramp workers, all of whom are protesting against what they describe as “poverty wages”.

Workers’ Concerns

The workers, primarily employed by ABM and Prospect Airport Services, which American Airlines contracts with, are voicing their inability to afford essential living conditions. Earning between $12.50 and $19 per hour, most employees report that their wages fall below the living wage for the region. Laura Kelly, a striking wheelchair agent, shared her concerns, stating, “I understand that passengers are worried they may not make it home for the holidays, but I have to worry that my family won’t even have a home this Thanksgiving. We don’t want to go on strike; however, my family deserves a safe place to lay their heads at night.”

Impact on Passengers

While a substantial number of workers walked off the job, CLT officials have reassured the public that measures are in place to ensure a smooth travel experience during this busy period. The airport anticipates welcoming over 1 million passengers between November 21 and December 2, marking its busiest Thanksgiving week yet. Both ABM and Prospect Airport Services have expressed a commitment to minimizing any disruptions, recognizing the gravity of the situation amidst the holiday rush.