Finland: Unionized air traffic controllers and airport ground staff to strike nationwide Feb. 1-2

Unionized air traffic controllers (ATC) and other air sector staff to strike nationwide Feb. 1-2. The industrial action is part of a coordinated nationwide strike Feb. 1, that includes education, healthcare, service, construction, and industrial sectors. Labor unions are denouncing government employment reforms, including to the right to strike. Finnish air operators have warned of widespread flight cancellations and delays. Striking workers plan to gather in Kansalaistori Square in Helsinki, Feb. 1, as part of the protest action.

Unless averted, the industrial action will likely cause significant disruptions to flights to and from Finland, including widespread cancellations and delays. Passengers will likely face delays and congestion at airports, and lengthy airport processes. Disruptions will likely continue in the hours following the strike, as services return to normal.