Australia: Jetstar ground crew to hold 24-hour strike February 19 /update 4

Event

The Transport Workers Union (TWU) announced on Thursday, February 13, that Jetstar baggage handlers and ground crew members plan to hold a nationwide 24-hour strike on Wednesday, February 19. According to Jetstar officials, some flights will likely be canceled or delayed due to the industrial action. Passengers with flights booked on February 19 will be allowed to cancel their reservation and receive a full refund or rebook to an earlier date at no additional cost. Additional information can be found on the Jetstar website here.

Significant delays, modified timetables, and flight cancelations are possible on the days leading up to and on the strike.

Context

Jetstar workers held two strikes in December 2019, causing flight disruptions throughout the country. The TWU is demanding more rest breaks for ground crew members, as well as a guaranteed 12-hour break between shifts, guaranteed 30 hours a week, and an annual wage increase of 4 percent.

Advice

Potentially impacted travelers are advised to monitor developments to the situation, confirm the status of their flights prior to departure, and to contact their airline for additional information.