A nationwide strike by airport workers in Germany has caused major disruptions, resulting in the cancellation of hundreds of flights and affecting over 500,000 passengers. The strike, organized by the trade union Verdi, began unexpectedly at Hamburg Airport on Sunday before spreading to other major airports, including Frankfurt, Munich, and Berlin.
Frankfurt Airport, the busiest in Germany, has urged passengers to avoid traveling, warning that boarding and transfers would likely be impacted. Munich Airport also advised travelers of significant reductions in the flight schedule. Lufthansa has confirmed widespread delays and cancellations throughout its network.
German media reports indicate that thousands of flights could be affected by the strike, with many travelers, including those who had already checked in their luggage, facing difficulty retrieving their belongings.
Verdi is demanding an 8% pay increase or at least €350 more per month, along with additional benefits and time off. However, employers have rejected these demands, calling them unaffordable. The strike has also expanded to waste collection services in several cities, including Berlin, Essen, and Kiel, where garbage has been left uncollected for days.
Further strikes are anticipated this week in government and municipal facilities, with the next round of negotiations scheduled for Friday in Potsdam.
