Massive Strike Disrupts Air Traffic at German Airports

A 24-hour strike called by the Verdi union at 13 major German airports, including Frankfurt, Munich, and Berlin, has led to massive disruptions in air travel, affecting over half a million passengers. The strike involves ground personnel, baggage handlers, and security staff, with Verdi demanding an 8% wage increase or a minimum monthly raise of €350, along with higher bonuses and additional time off. As a result, more than 3,400 flights are expected to be canceled, causing significant delays and cancellations for both domestic and international routes, particularly impacting flights to and from Austria. Major airports have warned travelers to avoid coming to the airports due to the high likelihood of operational failures. The employers have deemed the union's demands as unaffordable, and further negotiations are scheduled later this month. If the dispute remains unresolved, additional strikes could occur, potentially affecting European air traffic even more severely.