BERLIN: A significant strike by security staff over pay disputes led to the cancellation of hundreds of flights across Germany's major airports on Thursday, impacting over 200,000 passengers. The one-day strike action saw more than 1,100 flights grounded at 11 airports, including Frankfurt, Germany's busiest international hub, which advised passengers against coming to the airport due to the closure of security checkpoints.
According to Philippines News Agency, major disruptions and flight cancellations were anticipated at several airports, including Hamburg, Bremen, Hannover, Berlin, Cologne/Bonn, Dusseldorf, Leipzig/Halle, Dresden, Erfurt, and Stuttgart. Munich and Nuremberg airports were not participating in the strike, though disruptions could still occur due to the nationwide impact on flight operations.
The strike was called by the Ver.di union, representing approximately 25,000 security staff, following unsuccessful collective bargaining negotiations with the Federal Association of Aviation Security Companies (BDLS). The union's demands include a pay rise of USD3.02 per hour, increased bonuses, and higher overtime pay rates, highlighting the ongoing challenges in reaching an agreement that meets the needs of the security staff.