19 Feb 2024 | 08:45 AM UTC
Germany: Unionized Lufthansa ground staff to strike at international airports nationwide, Feb. 20-21
Unionized Lufthansa ground crew to strike at airports across Germany from 04:00 Feb. 20-07:10 Feb. 21. Air travel disruptions likely.
Unionized ground staff employed by Lufthansa (LH) and affiliated with the Verdi labor union plan to strike at international airports nationwide from 04:00 Feb. 20-07:10 Feb. 21. The union is demanding increased pay and an inflation compensation bonus for employees. The strike will affect operations at the following seven airports: Berlin Brandenburg (BER), Cologne-Bonn (CGN), Dusseldorf (DUS), Frankfurt (FRA), Hamburg (HAM), Munich International (MUC), and Stuttgart (STR). Lufthansa services at other airports may be affected by knock-on disruptions. Lufthansa Cargo (GEC) operations will also likely be impacted by the industrial action.
Passenger processing delays and resultant flight disruptions are highly likely across the Lufthansa network; residual disruptions will probably extend for several hours after the strike ends as the carrier works to clear its flight backlog. Cargo handling and shipping disruptions are also likely. Striking workers could picket outside the airports or near Lufthansa offices; heightened security and localized transport disruptions are likely near any such demonstrations that may take place.
Reconfirm travel arrangements if booked to fly with Lufthansa Feb. 20-21. Do not check out of accommodations until onward travel is confirmed. Allow extra time to clear check-in and security for Lufthansa flights during the strike period. Consider alternative shipping methods for critical freights. Avoid all demonstrations as a standard precaution.
The seven locations targeted by the industrial action are Germany's busiest airports, according to the latest statistics. A similar strike by Verdi affiliated ground staff on Feb. 7-8, at five of these airports, resulted in the cancellation of 900 out of 1,000 flights.
