.jpg)
Frankfurt, Germany - Cabin crew unions representing employees of Lufthansa Group airlines have overwhelmingly voted to authorize strikes, raising the possibility of significant disruptions for passengers.
Vereinigung Cockpit (VC), the union representing pilots at Discover Airlines, Lufthansa's leisure subsidiary, and Ufo, the union representing cabin crew at Lufthansa and its subsidiary Cityline, both reported strong support for strike action in separate ballots.
More than 96% of Ufo members and a substantial majority of VC members voted in favor of authorizing walkouts. This follows extended negotiations between the unions and Lufthansa Group that have yet to reach a resolution regarding wages and working conditions.
.jpg)
Ufo is seeking a 15% pay increase for approximately 18,000 Lufthansa cabin crew members and nearly 1,000 employees at Cityline over the next 18 months. Additionally, the union demands an inflation adjustment bonus of €3,000 and increased regular bonuses.
VC is pursuing similar wage increases for Discover Airlines pilots.
Lufthansa has not yet issued a public statement regarding the vote, and neither union has announced specific dates for potential strikes. However, the authorization vote elevates the risk of significant disruptions for passengers booked on Lufthansa and its subsidiaries.
This development adds to the existing challenges confronting the air travel industry in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Airlines continue to grapple with rising fuel costs and labor shortages, exerting pressure on their financial sustainability.
Key points:
- Cabin crew unions representing Lufthansa Group airlines overwhelmingly voted to authorize strikes.
- Negotiations concerning wages and working conditions remain unresolved.
- Unions seek increased wages and bonuses.
- Potential strikes could significantly disrupt air travel for Lufthansa passengers.
- This development contributes to the airline industry's ongoing challenges.
