Baggage handling firm looks set to axe 1,000 jobs following Flybe collapse

Hundreds of baggage handling jobs are under threat following the collapse of airline Flybe.

Cargo and baggage handling firm Swissport has launched a consultation to “put the business on a firmer footing”.

The move affects staff in Liverpool and Manchester and the Midlands.

GMB, the aviation union, says up to 1,000 Swissport jobs now at risk and claim many of them could be saved if other airlines take on regional routes which were operated by Flybe.

The baggage handling and ground crew jobs are under threat at Birmingham, East Midlands, Cardiff, Aberdeen, Edinburgh, Liverpool and Manchester airports following the collapse of Flybe.

Shadow transport minister Karl Turner this week called on the Government to offer assistance not just to Flybe staff, but all plans to the end must be extended to those not employed by Flybe but are nonetheless affected.

Nadine Houghton, GMB National Officer, said: “Up to 1,000 Swissport jobs are now at risk from Flybe’s collapse – that’s on top of thousands more directly employed and in the wider supply chain.

“But many of these can be saved it airlines who’ve shown interest in taking on regional routes put their money where their mouth is, get on and do it.

“The Government needs to do everything in its power to make the transfer of routes and the saving of jobs as easy and painless as possible.”

National union GMB represents Swissport workers.

Nadine Houghton, GMB National Officer, said: “The collapse of Flybe is already having a domino effect on good jobs across regions, where aviation is vital for sustaining connectivity and supporting local economies.

“The Government needs to urgently step in with a rescue plan for our regional airports to minimise damage and protect livelihoods.”

A spokesman for the firm confirmed that discussions were ongoing with their staff.

He said: “We were saddened to hear the news about Flybe, a business partner we have proudly served for many years.

“Discussions with members of the Swissport team at Manchester are ongoing and our priority is keeping them informed and supported through this difficult process.

“We have a responsibility to carefully consider the best outcome for all our employees and partners across the business. As discussions are ongoing we cannot comment further at this time.”