300 ICTS central search members based at Aberdeen and Glasgow airports are being balloted for strike action in a row over pay and conditions.

The company employs around 220 workers at Glasgow airport and around 100 workers at Aberdeen airport. The workers deal with passengers directly in the security search areas and process them for flights. The workers also cover mobile patrols, control access posts, screen all deliveries and deal with emergency services.

Scheduled talks last Friday (7June) with ICTS central search management were cancelled, and the union has called on the airports’ owner – AGS – to intervene in the escalating dispute.

READ: Southwest pilots agree deal, but cabin crew vote to strike

Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said: “Our members have been left with no option but to fight for a fair pay offer because the company is refusing to give them one.”

ICTS’ position differs strongly to that of the union. In a statement a company spokesperson said,

“Constructive pay talks with our staff at Glasgow and Aberdeen airports are ongoing. Generous pay proposals have been tabled that would give staff an increase as well as a lump sum payment. This is in addition to the 15-28% increases our staff have received over the last 2 years. We would like to reassure the travelling public that their security is our priority and there will be no disruptions”

The ballots at both airports will open on Monday 17 June and will close on Monday 1 July. If the ballots are successful, then strike action could start mid-July at the peak of the summer holiday rush.