Charlotte airport workers union goes on strike Wednesday, citing workplace safety
Charlotte airport workers will go on strike Wednesday over workplace conditions and safety concerns, according to a news release from 32BJ SEIU, a union representing the workers.
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The 24-hour strike involves employees contracted to work at Charlotte Douglas International Airport through ABM, a facility management company that provides services such as wheelchair assistance and cabin cleaning.
The strike comes in the fallout of ABM employee Colleen Coates’ death, who told colleagues she wasn’t feeling well in the days leading up to her Sept. 17 shift but showed up to work anyway because she needed the paycheck. Coates collapsed while waiting to clean an American Airlines aircraft and couldn’t be resuscitated, according to the union. She was 55.
Her coworkers have concerns about workplace safety, harassment, verbal abuse and intimidation, according to the news release. They also want clear information about their paid leave.
“Yesterday, ABM workers attempted to deliver a petition to management outlining their demands at two office locations,” the press release said. “The sign said open, but doors were locked and lights were off. At the other, management did not even open the door.”
In a written statement provided to The Charlotte Observer, ABM said it maintains an “open-door policy” and takes all concerns seriously. The company did not comment on how this will impact passenger services.
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“The safety and well-being of our team members are fundamental to our operations. We are committed to providing safe working conditions, competitive wages and benefits, and a workplace where employees feel comfortable raising concerns,” the statement read.
The airport encouraged passengers to check directly with their airline about potential impacts and reiterated the striking workers are not employed by the airport.
Picketing begins at 1 p.m. with a news conference at 1:30 p.m. A spokesperson for the union didn’t immediately have a head count for how many employees would participate.
The strike is happening amid ongoing lease negotiations between the airport and five major airlines. The Charlotte City Council received copies of the full, tentative airport use and lease agreement for the first time Tuesday.
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The draft agreement does not address worker rights.
This story was originally published October 14, 2026 at 11:36 AM.
