Service workers at Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) in Charlotte, North Carolina, launched a strike early Monday morning following an overnight vote, coinciding with what could be a record-setting Thanksgiving travel period. The strike involves workers employed by contractors for American Airlines, including ABM and Prospect Airport Services, who are protesting what they describe as “unfair labor practices and poverty wages.”
The striking employees, including cabin cleaners, ramp workers, lavatory attendants, wheelchair aides, and trash truck drivers, are calling attention to low wages that make it challenging to sustain even a basic living in Charlotte.
Many earn as little as $12.50 per hour, far below what Service Employees International Union (SEIU) officials deem a livable wage. SEIU officials stated that many workers are forced to juggle two or three jobs to make ends meet.
“Airport service workers make holiday travel possible by keeping airports safe, clean, and running,” the SEIU said. “Despite their critical role in the profits that major corporations enjoy, many airport service workers must work multiple jobs to survive.”
The strike comes during one of the busiest travel weeks of the year. Airport officials predict that between November 21 and December 2, CLT will see over 1 million departing passengers—a 7% increase compared to 2023. The strike, which began at 5 a.m., includes planned rallies and even a “Strikesgiving” lunch at 1 p.m., highlighting the symbolic timing of the walkout during the holiday season.
Contractors ABM and Prospect Airport Services have acknowledged the strike and expressed a commitment to minimizing disruptions for travelers while addressing workers’ grievances.
Prospect Airport Services stated: “We recognize the seriousness of airport workers striking, particularly during the busy holiday travel season, and remain fully committed to addressing concerns and minimizing any disruptions to our operations during this critical time.”
ABM outlined various avenues it offers employees to voice concerns, including an open-door policy, on-site HR representatives, and a national hotline for anonymous reporting. “We keep employee safety and job satisfaction at the forefront of everything we do and are committed to addressing concerns swiftly,” ABM said in a statement.
The strike highlights the ongoing challenges faced by airport service workers across the country, many of whom operate on the front lines of the travel industry while struggling to secure fair wages and working conditions. With the added pressure of the holiday travel season, this protest shines a spotlight on the critical, yet often overlooked, role these workers play in keeping airports functional and passengers moving smoothly.
