Public sector employees in Germany initiated 24-hour warning strikes on Monday, causing significant disruptions at Cologne-Bonn and Düsseldorf airports.
The strike at Cologne-Bonn Airport began on Sunday evening, leading to the cancellation of 106 out of 168 scheduled takeoffs and landings on Monday. The airport warned that additional delays, cancellations, or diversions could occur.
At Düsseldorf Airport, the warning strike commenced at 3 a.m. (0200 GMT) on Monday. Reports indicated that around one-third of the 334 flights planned for the strike period were expected to be canceled. Both airports advised passengers to check the status of their flights with their airline or tour operator before heading to the airport.
The Verdi trade union is demanding an 8% pay increase for public sector workers, with a minimum increase of €350 ($367) per month. They are also seeking higher bonuses for particularly stressful tasks and three additional days off. According to Verdi, approximately 400 employees participated in the strike at Düsseldorf, covering roles in administration, check-in, aircraft handling, passenger and crew transportation, and baggage handling.
These strikes are part of the union’s efforts to exert pressure during ongoing wage negotiations for the public sector. The second round of bargaining in Potsdam, which took place last Tuesday, concluded without an agreement, and the third round is scheduled for March 14.
Additionally, Verdi announced plans for a two-day warning strike at Munich Airport on Thursday and Friday to further emphasize their demands in the public sector wage negotiations. This strike is set to begin at midnight on Wednesday and continue until midnight on Friday. The union anticipates significant disruptions, particularly in security checks and ground services, according to Verdi representative Manuela Dietz.
( Source : DW )
