The Lufthansa cabin crew union has declared a fresh two-day strike at Frankfurt and Munich airports in Germany, affecting approximately 100,000 travelers. The strike follows Lufthansa’s recording high profits for the year 2023.
The strike is scheduled to take place on Tuesday and Wednesday, covering all departures from Frankfurt airport on Tuesday and all flights from Munich on Wednesday. The Independent Flight Attendants Organization (UFO) is demanding a 15% pay raise and a €3,000 inflation compensation payment for its 18,000 Lufthansa members and 1,000 Cityline members. The union claimed that more than 96% of its members voted in favor of the strike.
The strike involves cabin crew members from both Lufthansa and its low-cost subsidiary, Cityline. While Lufthansa’s code share partners may also be affected, the extent is still uncertain. Lufthansa recently reported a profit increase of €1.67 billion in 2023, doubling from the previous year, sparking demands for improved compensation for employees.
The UFO board chairman, Joachim Vazquez Buerger, expressed that cabin crews should share in the airline’s success, emphasizing the need for fair benefits. The lack of agreement between Lufthansa management and staff has escalated tensions, with the union accusing management of neglecting employee welfare.
Previous strikes by Lufthansa ground staff led by the Ver.di union have already disrupted travel for approximately 200,000 passengers. The ground staff members are advocating for a 12.5% pay raise or a monthly increase of at least €500, coupled with an inflation compensation bonus. Despite Lufthansa proposing a minimum 10% pay increment, the union argues that ground staff salaries remain insufficient, especially considering the company’s substantial profits.
The ongoing labor disputes in the German aviation and rail sectors have caused significant disruptions for millions of passengers, highlighting the growing discontent among workers regarding compensation and working conditions. The consecutive strikes have brought transport networks to a standstill, further exacerbating travel challenges for the public.
To mitigate the impact of these strikes on passengers, it is crucial for relevant authorities and airline management to engage in constructive dialogue with employee representatives, addressing their concerns and working towards a sustainable resolution that benefits both the workforce and the company.
Lufthansa Cabin Crew Union Announces Two-Day Strike in Germany, Impacting Travelers
