The nationwide strike at 13 German airports, including Hamburg, was actually announced for Monday. However, the union Verdi called for a strike on Sunday morning – with only 30 minutes' notice.

According to airport spokeswoman Katja Bromm, only ten flights were handled in the morning, and all other departures and arrivals of the day were canceled. A total of 144 arrivals and 139 departures were originally planned, including connections to Vienna, Salzburg, Graz, and Innsbruck.

Sharp Criticism from the Airport – Verdi Defends Actions

The sudden work stoppage has met with massive criticism from the airport. "The union is paralyzing the airport – and without any notice period, right at the start of the Hamburg spring holidays. This harms Verdi, especially the people," said Bromm. She accused the union of disproportionately frequent strikes at the airport.

Union secretary Lars Stubbe defended the actions. They regret the impact on passengers, but the warning strike is necessary to exert economic pressure on the employer side. "If we announce our strikes early, countermeasures are taken, such as the use of strikebreakers," said Stubbe.

Union Demands Higher Wages and Better Working Conditions

The union is demanding a wage increase of eight percent, but at least 350 euros more per month. Additionally, training allowances should increase by 200 euros, surcharges for stressful working hours should be raised, and three additional days off should be introduced. Employers have so far rejected the demands as unaffordable.

Significant Disruptions Expected on Monday as Well

The strike originally planned for Monday was supposed to start with the beginning of the night shift and last until the end of the late shift. However, the strike has now been brought forward, and significant disruptions are also expected at the airport on Monday. "We recommend all travelers who wish to fly from Hamburg tomorrow to contact their airline," said Bromm.

The third round of negotiations in the wage dispute between Verdi and the employers is scheduled for March 14 to 16 in Potsdam.

(APA/Red)

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