A surprise strike at Hamburg Airport on Sunday led to the cancellation of nearly 300 flights, disrupting travel plans for more than 40,000 passengers. The walkout, which was not announced in advance, involved airport ground handlers and occurred ahead of planned larger strikes across Germany on Monday.
Verdi, the German trade union representing public sector workers and airport staff, initiated the strike without prior notice after just 10 flights had been processed in the morning. The unplanned action resulted in 144 cancelled arrivals and 139 departures.
The union’s demands include an 8% wage increase or a minimum 350 euros ($380) raise per month, along with enhanced bonuses and more time off. Employers have rejected the requests, citing affordability concerns. The surprise strike is seen as an escalation after several walkouts last month.
In a statement, a Hamburg Airport spokesperson expressed frustration, calling the strikes excessive and disruptive to travelers: “Two rounds of strikes between talks already. That is clearly excessive and unfair to tens of thousands of travelers who have nothing to do with the disputes.”
A Verdi spokesperson explained the strategy behind the short-notice walkout, stating that it was aimed at putting maximum pressure on employers to deliver a fair offer in the ongoing negotiations.
In addition to Hamburg, Monday’s planned strike action will impact major airports across Germany, including Frankfurt, Munich, and Berlin.
References:
- Reuters (March 9, 2025)
- Verdi and Hamburg Airport statements
