Airport workers routine facing abuse and misogyny, says Unite

Unite says most airport workers face abuse on the job, citing a study that also found high levels of verbal harassment and physical assaults. The union launched its “Abuse Doesn’t Fly” campaign, urging tighter laws under the upcoming Aviation Bill. Unite wants the bill to expand airlines’ existing authority to ban disruptive passengers so airports can also coordinate bans, with bodies able to share information. A Unite survey found 72% of ground staff and 71% of cabin crew report verbal abuse at least monthly, while 31% of ground staff and 42% of cabin crew reported physical assault. Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said abuse is “not part of the job.”