A TRADE union is calling for the Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, to consider the impact the ULEZ clean air extension across London will have on Heathrow Airport workers.

Post-pandemic, the aviation industry struggled to meet the demands of the air-travelling public, who wanted to fly to holiday destinations or be reunited with loved ones.

Many of them experienced flight cancellations and extensive delays due to ground-staff shortages. 

The industry responded with recruitment campaigns to encourage workers back to jobs at Heathrow, but the ULEZ extension will threaten staff numbers, says the GMB.

Trevlyn McLeod, its London Region Organiser, said: “GMB has members paying £135 to park the car that got them to work, while  those who are dropped off or picked up at Heathrow must pay £5 a day.

“Free public transport passes for Heathrow workers, that applied to zones around the airport, were suspended at the beginning of 2021.

“Another hit of £12.50 a day will prove too much for many of our members who will seek alternative employment outside the ULEZ zone.”

The GMV finds itself in an unlikely alliance with Conservative-run councils on the fringe of London, including Hillingdon, who oppose the expansion.

 “The idea that our members ditch their cars and all jump on a local bus is absurd,” said Mr McLeod. “Many of our members have very early starts and very late finishes.

“There isn’t public transport that can be used during these unsociable hours. Using their cars means they, many of whom are women, can safely travel alone at times of the day when many of us are in bed asleep.

 “GMB understands how important it is to tackle air pollution, but the ULEZ extension will affect our Heathrow members who aren’t earning huge salaries.”

GMB is calling on Sadiq Khan to consider the financial and practical implications of the ULEZ charge on Heathrow’s essential workers.