Lufthansa and a union representing cabin crew have reached a pay deal that will provide a pay rise totaling 17.4% in three stages over a three-year period, along with a one-time payment of 3,000 euros per person to offset inflation. This deal concludes the last of several major disputes that have led to recent strikes at the airline and in the wider aviation sector in Germany. The union, known as UFO, originally sought a 15% increase over an 18-month period but will now put the deal to a ballot of its members. Talks are still ongoing for staff at two Lufthansa subsidiaries, Cityline and Discover.
Last month, the Ver.di union secured a pay raise totaling an average of 12.5% over two years for some 25,000 Lufthansa ground staff following an arbitration process. This deal will also include bigger raises for lower earners. In addition, a separate dispute involving security staff at major German airports and their employers was resolved earlier this week after reaching a deal with raises totaling 13.1% to 15.1% over 15 months.
These disputes led to strikes in recent months, causing widespread flight cancellations in Germany. The disruptions were further exacerbated by a simultaneous dispute between Germany’s main railway operator, Deutsche Bahn, and a union representing many of its train drivers. Last month, this dispute was resolved with an agreement that will see the working week of drivers and some other personnel reduced from 38 hours to 35 by 2029 without having their pay cut. Workers will also have the option to work longer in exchange for more money.
The series of disputes and strikes in the aviation and railway sectors have posed significant challenges for travelers and businesses in Germany, leading to widespread disruptions and financial losses. The resolution of these conflicts has come as a relief to passengers and companies that rely on these services for transportation and logistics. The agreements reached between Lufthansa and its unions, as well as other companies in the aviation and railway sectors, will provide stability and ensure improved working conditions for employees while maintaining the efficiency and reliability of these essential services.
The recent pay deals for Lufthansa cabin crew and ground staff, as well as security personnel at German airports, mark significant progress in addressing the grievances of workers in the aviation sector. These negotiations have resulted in substantial pay raises and other benefits for employees, improving their overall compensation and working conditions. The agreements reached through arbitration processes demonstrate the effectiveness of collective bargaining and negotiation in resolving labor disputes and ensuring fair treatment for workers across different industries in Germany.
Moving forward, it will be essential for companies like Lufthansa, Deutsche Bahn, and other major employers in Germany to maintain open dialogue with their employees and labor unions to prevent future disputes and strikes that could disrupt operations and impact customers. By addressing the concerns of workers and reaching mutually beneficial agreements, companies can foster a positive work environment, enhance employee satisfaction, and ensure the continued success and sustainability of their businesses. The recent resolutions of labor disputes in the aviation and railway sectors serve as a reminder of the importance of communication and collaboration between employers and employees in achieving shared goals and resolving conflicts in the workplace.
