Airport baggage talks to save staff
TALKS were continuing this week between rival baggage handlers at Durham Tees Valley airport as bosses attempted to reach a deal that secured the future of 43 staff.
Keith Nicholls, commercial director for Aviance UK, said BMi’s shock withdrawal of services last year and slow growth at the airport meant that, in his view, it could no longer sustain two handling companies.
“It’s not growing as fast as we need,” he said.
Aviance began operating from Durham Tees Valley - one of 17 UK airports where it has a presence - in 2001 when it acquired British Midland’s handling business.
“They were operating larger aircraft at higher frequency to Heathrow and that underpinned the business,” said Mr Nicholls.
“BMi pulled out suddenly last year and that was really the catalyst.
“We have not been able to secure new contracts to grow the business.
“I suspect there is only enough for one handling company.
“Our projections for 2008 showed that we were looking to make considerable losses.”
Aviance handles baggage for FlyGlobespan, British Midlands and Eastern.
“Talks are ongoing with Serviceair, but we are optimistic that we will secure a transfer of business,” said Mr Nicholls.
He said the industry was increasingly competitive and pointed to Serviceair’s recent withdrawal from Glasgow, London city and Aberdeen airports..
“Rationalisation is going on in the UK baggage handling market.
“It’s very competitive. People are paying less to fly and airlines are cost cutting.”
He said the company’s priority was to secure a transfer for staff.
“Our priority from the outset was to protect the jobs and keep the staff fully informed.”
He said talks should be concluded on Friday and he hoped to make an announcement to employees on Monday.
