Leipzig Airport in the focus of strikes
Airports across Germany, including Leipzig/Halle, will be on strike next Monday. The trade union Verdi has called the strike to draw attention to the deadlocked wage negotiations. Public service and ground handling employees are affected. These are essential for smooth flight operations, as they are responsible for aircraft maintenance and refueling.
The strike in Leipzig/Halle begins at 5 a.m. on Monday and ends at 7 a.m. on Tuesday. A total of 13 arrivals and 14 departures are affected, including Turkish Airlines flights to Istanbul.
Reactions to the strikes
Lufthansa and the airport association ADV have criticized the strikes at the important traffic hubs, in some cases sharply. They criticize the fact that international flight connections will be significantly impaired by the two-day strikes. Nevertheless, Verdi emphasizes that the strikes were announced well in advance to give passengers planning security.
Collective bargaining remains without result
Verdi is demanding a salary increase of eight percent, at least 350 euros more per month, as well as three additional days off and higher bonuses for stressful working hours. These demands have so far been rejected by the employers and described as unaffordable. The next talks are scheduled for 14 to 16 March 2025.
Passengers should inform themselves
Passengers who want to depart from Central German airports such as Leipzig should check their flight status with their airline. As the transfer volume in Leipzig is lower, it is expected that fewer travelers will be stranded. Nevertheless, affected passengers should enquire with their airline about compensation options.
Passenger rights in the event of a strike
The Federal Office of Civil Aviation points out that passengers are entitled to reimbursement of costs or replacement transportation if flights are canceled. Here you can find further information from the LBA on passenger rights in the event of strikes. However, caution is advised in exceptional circumstances; such claims may become invalid if the reason for the cancellation is beyond the airline's control. According to passenger rights experts, Verdi strikes fall into this category, which is why passengers are often not entitled to compensation.
