German airports strikes worsen, passengers face flight disruptions

Passengers braced for further travel disruptions on Friday as strikes by aviation security staff persisted across six German airports. The call for strikes by trade union Verdi targeted Hanover, Dortmund, Weeze, Dresden, Leipzig, and Karlsruhe/Baden-Baden airports, affecting thousands of travelers. The initial strike action commenced late Thursday in Hanover, marking an escalation in the ongoing dispute.

Verdi’s aim is to amplify pressure on employers ahead of upcoming negotiations scheduled for March 20. The discussions revolve around the working conditions of approximately 25,000 employees responsible for security checks at airport entrances on behalf of Germany’s Federal Police. Despite five unsuccessful negotiation rounds, Verdi persists in its demand for a €2.80 ($3.05) hourly wage increase phased in over 12 months, with accelerated overtime bonuses.

The Association of Aviation Security Companies (BDLS) has offered an increase of 2.70 euros per hour over three stages, translating to a monthly wage rise of €432 to €470. The proposed collective agreement spans 24 months, with the next negotiation round slated for March 20. Meanwhile, Verdi, established in 2001, remains a significant player in German trade unionism, operating under the German Trade Union Confederation. Additionally, travelers faced further turmoil with train drivers announcing a 24-hour stoppage, coinciding with Lufthansa cabin crew’s strike declaration over the weekend.