Border Force staff at UK airports to strike over Christmas, leading to cancellations and long delays, with travellers urged to check flight status.

Travellers across the UK have been warned to brace for significant disruptions during the Christmas period, as Border Force workers are set to strike across multiple airports, including Gatwick, Heathrow, Manchester, Birmingham, and Cardiff, from December 23 to New Year’s Eve.

Airport authorities have expressed their frustration over the planned industrial action, with some predicting cancellations and extended delays, particularly at immigration and customs. Manchester Airport anticipates flight cancellations, while other airports are putting contingency measures in place to assist with passenger welfare.

A spokesperson for the Airport Operators Association (AOA) stressed the importance of preparations, saying that without solid contingency plans, the entire travel system would be overwhelmed by cancellations and disruptions. “The strike action puts British workers’ Christmases at risk,” they added, calling for urgent resolution to the dispute.

At Gatwick, additional staff will be present on strike days to assist passengers. A spokesperson commented, “While we hope for a swift resolution, we are working closely with Border Force and expect flights to operate normally, although the situation could change.” Heathrow Airport has also set out “mitigation plans” but warned that the strike may lead to longer wait times for passengers during peak hours.

Meanwhile, Manchester Airport urged passengers to prepare for longer immigration queues and advised them to check their flight status before travel. “With reduced staffing, some services may be cancelled, and passengers should be ready for potential delays,” said an airport spokesperson.

Cardiff Airport is expected to remain operational throughout the strike period, though the Home Office will need to implement “appropriate measures” to ensure border security.

The AOA has strongly urged the government and unions to resolve the issue swiftly to avoid further disruption. In response to the strike, Immigration Minister Robert Jenrick expressed his disapproval, calling the timing of the industrial action “unjustifiable” and warned of severe disruptions to holiday travel plans.

Additionally, with rail strikes also affecting the holiday period, the RAC predicts a surge in traffic, especially on Christmas Eve, as travellers turn to cars when trains are unavailable. National Highways reassured the public that it has resilient plans in place to manage the increased road traffic.