Workers at Charlotte Douglas International Airport began a strike on Monday morning just as the busy Thanksgiving travel period kicks off, aiming to raise awareness about unfair labor practices and seek higher pay.

The Service Employees International Union (SEIU) announced this strike involving employees working for American Airlines contractors, ABM and Prospect, following a vote by workers on Friday to authorize the action at the airport.

“The (workers) earn so little they cannot afford basic housing,” stated SEIU officials in their announcement. “Some have lost their homes, sleep in their cars, or have to squeeze their families into rented rooms, while others face the risk of eviction.”

This Thanksgiving, travel is expected to hit new highs. AAA estimates that nearly 80 million people will be traveling by car, plane, or cruise.

According to SEIU, Charlotte Douglas International Airport anticipates hosting a record 1 million travelers in the upcoming weeks.

“American Airlines is prepared to serve our customers this Thanksgiving holiday,” said an American spokesperson to YSL News on Monday afternoon. “Currently, there is no impact on our customers or operations at Charlotte Douglas International Airport due to ABM or Prospect staffing, and we do not foresee any significant disruptions this week. We are closely working with ABM and Prospect to proactively address any potential issues.”

Worker shares financial struggles

Timothy Lowe, 49, a wheelchair agent for Prospect, informed YSL News that he has been living in a storage unit for several months due to his inability to afford rent.

Previously, he mentioned he used to spend most of his paycheck on a hotel room.

“This is the best job I’ve had in a long time, and I enjoy providing service, but I cannot make ends meet,” Lowe stated on the picket line at the Charlotte airport. “I love assisting passengers traveling home for the holidays, but I need to be compensated enough to afford an apartment without relying on tips.”

Workers at Charlotte airport make between $12.50 and $19 per hour, according to an SEIU representative. In contrast, the living wage for a single person in the Charlotte-Metro area is calculated to be $23.26 per hour by MIT’s Living Wage Calculator.

Prospect responds to the strike

On Monday morning, Prospect spokesperson Suzanne Mucklow issued the following statement to YSL News:

“We understand the seriousness of airport workers striking, especially during this busy holiday season, and we are fully dedicated to resolving concerns and minimizing any disruptions to our operations at this critical time,” the statement said. “Prospect Airport Services takes pride in providing competitive wages, experienced management, and comprehensive benefits to all our employees, including our dedicated workforce at Charlotte Douglas International Airport.”

Prospect warns of potential firings for striking workers

A letter obtained by YSL News reveals that Prospect has warned it may terminate employees who participate in the strike.

“Prospect believes that a strike under these circumstances violates applicable federal law,” stated the letter dated Nov. 24. “We expect all employees to fulfill their scheduled shifts, and those who engage in what we consider an illegal work stoppage could face disciplinary measures, up to termination.”

While the company did not directly address inquiries about the Nov. 24 letter, it emphasized in its statement that it values open communication with workers to ensure they receive “fair pay and meaningful career development opportunities.”

“As we work through this situation, we remain committed to upholding the highest standards of service for our customers while also supporting our employees,” the statement concluded.

Employees start their strike at 5 a.m.

Workers began their strike by walking off the job at 5 a.m. ET, according to officials.

They will be joined by fellow service workers from various sectors, including Workers United and the Union of Southern Service Workers, along with some elected officials for a rally scheduled at 11 a.m. ET.

Laura Kelly, another wheelchair agent, mentioned she received an eviction notice and is expected to vacate her home by noon local time on Monday.

“I understand that travelers are concerned about reaching their destinations for the holidays. But my priority is ensuring my family has a place to stay this Thanksgiving,” Kelly, 44, said. “Instead of threatening us with termination, Prospect should provide us with what we deserve to keep our homes.”

The story has been updated with additional details.