Verdi Strikes Halt German Airports

Major disruptions hit Germany as the Verdi union stages strikes across 13 airports, demanding an 8% pay rise or a 350-euro increase for 23,000 public sector and ground handling employees. The strikes, affecting airports like Frankfurt, Munich, and Berlin, have led to over 3,400 flight cancellations, impacting more than 510,000 passengers. Verdi's demands extend beyond wages to include additional free days and increased bonuses. The strikes are part of ongoing negotiations with the BDLS for a new collective agreement for aviation security personnel, with talks set to resume in March 2025.

The airport association ADV anticipates significant disruptions, warning of a severely reduced flight schedule. In response, alternative travel plans are being arranged by airlines like Lufthansa. The strikes reflect broader public sector labor disputes, including demands for better conditions in municipal services and healthcare facilities. Employers criticize the union's demands as excessive and financially unfeasible, but Verdi remains firm in its pursuit of improved terms for its members. The next negotiation round is scheduled for mid-March, where the ongoing conflicts in the public sector will continue to be addressed.