More than 1,000 Border Force officers walked out on 22 October, launching a rolling strike that is scheduled to last through 31 December (with a Christmas Day pause). The Public and Commercial Services (PCS) union says members rejected a 2 percent pay offer—far below inflation—and are protesting staffing levels and unsociable hours.
Heathrow reported “minimal queuing” on day one thanks to military and civil-service contingencies, but Gatwick cautioned passengers to expect longer waits at passport control. The Home Office confirmed that fast-track e-gates remained open but advised travellers to allow extra time, especially families with children under 10 who cannot use the gates.
For corporate travel managers the chief risk is unpredictable arrival times, particularly for assignees needing same-day onward connections or time-sensitive client meetings. Some firms are re-routing via regional airports or Eurostar terminals, although PCS has not ruled out extending action to those sites. Employers should also remind assignees to carry copies of visas and assignment letters in case manual checks are required.
Negotiations are set to resume next week, but PCS warned that disruption could escalate during the November half-term peak if no deal is reached.
Heathrow reported “minimal queuing” on day one thanks to military and civil-service contingencies, but Gatwick cautioned passengers to expect longer waits at passport control. The Home Office confirmed that fast-track e-gates remained open but advised travellers to allow extra time, especially families with children under 10 who cannot use the gates.
For corporate travel managers the chief risk is unpredictable arrival times, particularly for assignees needing same-day onward connections or time-sensitive client meetings. Some firms are re-routing via regional airports or Eurostar terminals, although PCS has not ruled out extending action to those sites. Employers should also remind assignees to carry copies of visas and assignment letters in case manual checks are required.
Negotiations are set to resume next week, but PCS warned that disruption could escalate during the November half-term peak if no deal is reached.
