FAMAGUSTA GAZETTE – A major warning strike at 13 German airports began on Monday, halting much of the country’s air traffic amid wage disputes involving public sector workers and aviation security personnel.
Over 3,400 flights have been canceled, affecting over half a million passengers, according to the German airport association ADV. Lufthansa is revising its flight schedule to minimize disruptions, and airport operators are urging passengers to avoid terminals.
The strike, organized by the trade union Verdi, results from two separate wage disputes. Verdi is demanding an 8 percent wage increase or at least 350 euros more per month, along with additional leave for public sector employees. Negotiations are ongoing, with the third round of talks scheduled for March 14.
The second dispute involves aviation security personnel, with Verdi demanding improvements in occupational health and safety, 30 days of vacation, and other benefits. Negotiations with the federal association of aviation security companies (BDLS) will continue on March 26-27.
In Hamburg, airport employees advanced the strike by one day, halting work on Sunday and canceling all flights without prior notice.
Further strikes across federal and municipal institutions are expected throughout the week.