Airport Ground Services Reach Consensus, Averting Further Strikes

In a significant development for the aviation sector in Germany, potential strikes involving ground service workers at airports have been largely averted. Negotiations between employers and the trade union Verdi have culminated in a recommendation for a collaborative agreement, benefiting approximately 30,000 employees involved in aircraft handling.

The chair of the arbitration commission, Yvonne Sachtje, indicated that the proposed agreement is deemed viable for both parties and is expected to prevent any labor disputes for the next two years. This recommendation is pending approval from the tariff committees of the three negotiating parties, which include Verdi, the Association of Municipal Employers (VKA), and the Employers' Association for Ground Handling Services in Air Transport (ABL).

Following the introduction of a nationwide collective agreement for airport workers last year, this new accord aims to align the terms and duration with those already established for public service workers at federal and municipal levels. Previously, ground handlers participated in significant warning strikes orchestrated by Verdi in March, highlighting their solidarity with other public sector employees.

According to the arbitration proposal, the new agreement for ground services is set to last until March 31, 2027. Employees are anticipated to receive salary increases in two phases, with a 3.0% rise followed by an additional 2.8%. Moreover, starting in May 2026, all monthly salaries are expected to see a uniform increase of EUR35. Enhanced allowances and an additional vacation day have also been negotiated as part of this agreement.