Berlin Brandenburg Airport experienced a day of absolute inactivity this Wednesday due to a strike called by the Verdi trade union. The industrial action, which commenced in the early hours of the morning and is scheduled to last until midnight, has left the terminals virtually deserted.
According to airport operators, the suspension affects approximately 445 flights, directly impacting the travel plans of around 57,000 passengers. Despite the magnitude of the walkout, airport authorities noted that most travelers were notified in advance by their respective airlines, allowing them to rebook flights or seek alternative transportation.
Scope and Workforce Participation
The protest involves approximately 2,000 employees, covering critical areas for airport operations and safety, such as:
- Fire and Rescue Services.
- Air Traffic Control (ATC).
- Terminal Management.
Even with some external providers operational in ground handling and security screening, airport management confirmed that it has been impossible to maintain safe flight operations under these conditions.
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Labor Dispute: Demands and Official Stance
At the heart of the dispute are the workers’ economic demands. The Verdi union has labeled the initial offer presented by employers during the second round of negotiations as insufficient. Key demands include:
- A 6% salary increase.
- A minimum monthly raise of €250 (approximately $290).
- An additional day of leave for union members.
Conversely, the airport administration has dismissed the strike as “disproportionate,” citing the already strained operational conditions resulting from the international context of the war in Iran. Furthermore, Berlin’s Senator for Transport, Ute Bonde, has issued an urgent call for both parties to find common ground and resolve the conflict as soon as possible.
Despite the current deadlock, the airport’s CEO, Aletta von Massenbach, expressed confidence that a satisfactory agreement will be reached. The aviation sector and passengers alike remain attentive to the next round of talks, which is scheduled for March 25.
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