Employees in Antigua and Barbuda’s aviation industry are pushing back against what they describe as unfair vacation practices, including forced leave and vacation blackout periods that prevent workers from taking time off when they choose.

The concerns were among several issues raised during a recent meeting of the Airlines and Aviation Section of the Antigua and Barbuda Workers’ Union (ABWU), where union leaders and shop stewards gathered to discuss workplace challenges facing employees across the sector.

Workers from one company expressed frustration over vacation blackout periods that reportedly restricted them from taking annual leave during preferred times, even when requests were submitted well in advance. Employees also raised concerns about instances where workers were allegedly instructed to leave the workplace and placed on vacation leave without prior agreement.

ABWU General Secretary David Massiah said the union intends to challenge the practice, arguing that it runs contrary to provisions outlined in the Antigua and Barbuda Labour Code.

Massiah noted that the law requires vacation arrangements to be mutually agreed upon by both employer and employee and described the company’s actions as a unilateral approach that the union cannot support.

The meeting also focused on strengthening union representation within the airline and aviation industry. Section Chair Steveroy Phillip said expanding membership remains a priority, particularly among airport ground handlers who are not currently represented by the union.

“Our goal is to get more of the handlers at the airport unionised so that they can access the same benefits as the rest of us,” Phillip said. “We encourage each of our members to speak with a colleague and help strengthen our collective voice.” 

Phillip also highlighted concerns about some employers allegedly refusing workers occasional time off to participate in union activities. He said such actions would constitute a breach of existing collective bargaining agreements and undermine workers’ rights to engage in union affairs.

Despite the concerns raised, Phillip said he remains optimistic about the future of the section and expects participation to continue growing as the union prepares for its 59th Annual General Conference in September.

Union officials say they will continue engaging employers on the issues raised and remain committed to protecting the rights and interests of workers throughout the aviation sector.