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.