Germany: Unionized Lufthansa ground staff to strike nationwide, Feb. 7-8

Unionized ground staff employed by Lufthansa (LH) and Lufthansa Cargo (GEC) and affiliated with the Verdi labor union plan to strike from 04:00 Feb. 7-07:10 Feb. 8. The union is demanding increased pay and an inflation compensation bonus for employees. The strike will affect flights at the Frankfurt (FRA), Munich International (MUC), Hamburg (HAM), Berlin Brandenburg (BER), and Dusseldorf (DUS) airports; however, Lufthansa services at other airports may be affected by knock-on disruptions.

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. Verdi has announced that pickets will take place at FRA, MUC, HAM, and BER. 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.