Lufthansa Pilots Seek Strike Ballot Over Pension Dispute

Pilots at Lufthansa, represented by the Vereinigung Cockpit union, are threatening to strike due to failed negotiations over company pension plans, with the union declaring an impasse after seven rounds of talks. The dispute centers on dissatisfaction with Lufthansa's shift from a defined benefit pension plan to a defined contribution scheme, which places investment risks on pilots and has led to lower-than-expected payouts. While the union no longer demands a return to the old pension model, it insists Lufthansa increase its contributions to improve pilots' retirement benefits. The threat of strike action has already put pressure on Lufthansa's shares, which fell as investors reacted to the looming industrial unrest. This pension conflict is part of broader labor tensions within Lufthansa Group, where management has created lower-cost subsidiaries to operate under different labor agreements, exacerbating disputes over pay and conditions. The airline has yet to comment officially on the failure of talks or the potential strike timeline.