Negotiations between the 150 fuelers and Swissport have been ongoing for two months. Key issues include requests for basic amenities such as clean lunchrooms, adequate parking, personal lockers, and facilities to wash off jet fuel after shifts. Many workers report earning wages barely above Sea-Tac’s minimum wage, despite performing physically demanding and safety-critical tasks in all weather conditions.
Aircraft fuelers at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (Sea-Tac), represented by Teamsters Local 174, have voted to authorize a strike against Swissport, the world’s largest provider of airport ground services. The dispute centers on demands for improved working conditions and fair wages.
A strike could significantly impact operations at Sea-Tac, as these fuelers are responsible for servicing aircraft for major airlines including Delta, Alaska, Horizon, Frontier, JetBlue, United, Hawaiian, Spirit, Aeromexico, Air France, and American Airlines.
Teamsters Local 174 Secretary-Treasurer Rick Hicks emphasized the gravity of the situation, stating, “A strike is always a last resort, and that is especially true in an industry like this one where a strike would cause hardship for so many people. However, that decision ultimately lies with Swissport management, who has a responsibility to come back to the bargaining table with an offer that respects our members.
Swissport, which reported €3.7 billion in revenues in 2024, has yet to respond publicly to the strike authorization.
