Travelers Face Chaos as Industrial Action at Hewanorra Airport Escalates
Vieux Fort, St Lucia – Hewanorra International Airport (HIA) operations faced significant disruptions on Saturday, February 1, 2025, as ground handling staff from GCG Ground Services reportedly engaged in a coordinated “Go Slow” and sickout. The industrial action at Hewanorra Airport has severely impacted flight schedules, with nearly 90% of the workforce reported absent due to illness, limiting operational capacity at one of Saint Lucia’s primary international airports.
SLASPA (Saint Lucia Air and Sea Ports Authority) issued a public notice confirming the situation, which resulted in three flight cancellations and delays for other departures and arrivals. The industrial action left passengers stranded or rescheduling their plans. Management and supervisory personnel from GCG Ground Services stepped in to fill gaps left by absent staff; however, their efforts could not fully compensate for the scale of the disruption.
In the public notice, SLASPA stated:
“Earlier today, Saturday, February 1, 2025, the Hewanorra International Airport experienced flight disruptions as a result of what appeared to be industrial action by Staff of the Ground Handling Service Provider at the airport. Through a collaborative effort by the Airlines, senior management personnel of the Ground Handler, airport Stakeholders and SLASPA, most flight operations were facilitated.
However, some delays were experienced and there were three (3) flight cancellations as a result. It is anticipated that passengers from the cancelled flights will be accommodated and facilitated by the Airlines tomorrow, Sunday, February 2, 2025. Passengers who were so affected should keep close contact with their respective airlines for flight details and to be informed of any further delays. SLASPA trusts that the industrial relations matter between the Ground Handler and its Staff will be resolved at the soonest.
SLASPA apologizes for the inconvenience that this situation has caused to its valued customers and the travelling public.”
Labor dispute linked to ongoing negotiations
The labor action comes as GCG Ground Services and union representatives navigate collective bargaining negotiations. Sources suggest growing tensions over employment terms may have contributed to the walkout, though specifics of the negotiations remain undisclosed. SLASPA assured the public that senior personnel, airport stakeholders, and airlines collaborated to facilitate as many flight operations as possible under the circumstances.
Passenger impact and ongoing challenges
Passengers affected by cancellations were advised to contact their respective airlines for updates and rebooking assistance. Airlines have pledged to accommodate impacted travelers by Sunday, February 2, 2025. However, uncertainty looms as SLASPA and stakeholders work toward a resolution. While SLASPA expressed optimism about resolving the industrial relations dispute promptly, it acknowledged the inconvenience caused to the traveling public.
Aviation industry experts note that the disruption highlights the critical role ground handling services play in maintaining seamless airport operations. GCG Ground Services, as a key provider, manages essential tasks such as baggage handling, aircraft towing, and fueling. A significant reduction in their workforce can cripple daily airport activities, as seen in Saturday’s events.
Broader implications for Saint Lucia’s tourism sector
HIA serves as a gateway for thousands of tourists and residents traveling to and from Saint Lucia. With the country’s economy heavily reliant on tourism, sustained disruptions at the airport could have far-reaching economic repercussions. The incident underscores the delicate balance required to address workers’ concerns while maintaining operational stability in a sector vital to national revenue.
SLASPA has pledged to resolve the dispute in collaboration with the union and GCG Ground Services. In the meantime, travelers are urged to monitor airline communications and remain prepared for potential delays. As negotiations continue, the public will closely watch for signs of progress and restoration of full airport services.
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