Sydney Airport is bracing for major disruptions as plane refuellers plan a 12-hour strike on August 23, 2024. The strike, which will occur in staggered shifts, is organized by refuellers from Ampol Aviation, protesting against pay disparities and job insecurity. This industrial action is expected to cause significant delays and cancellations across both domestic and international flights, impacting 16 airlines including major carriers like Qantas, Virgin, and Air New Zealand.

The Transport Workers’ Union has thrown its support behind the strike, emphasizing the essential role of refuellers in aviation and highlighting the urgent need for better pay and working conditions. Negotiations between the workers and Ampol have been ongoing, but the failure to reach an agreement has led to this escalation.

Sydney Airport has advised passengers to stay updated on their flight status and allow extra time for travel, anticipating that the strike will cause considerable disruption throughout the day. This strike adds to the ongoing challenges faced by the aviation industry, which is still recovering from the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

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