Contest for Negotiated Labor Contracts - Labor organizations instigate work stoppage at Lufthansa's affiliate, Discover Flight
Travelers flying with Lufthansa's subsidiary, Discover Airlines, might encounter flight cancellations and delays this week. The unions, Cockpit (VC) and UFO, have urged their crew members to embark on a four-day strike from August 27th to August 30th. All flights departing from Germany will be affected, as confirmed by the unions in Frankfurt. Previously, the staff had determined in separate votes to initiate labor actions.
The source of this issue stems from a dispute with the Verdi union, which has negotiated the first collective bargaining agreements for pilots and cabin crew at the budding airline. The demands of UFO and VC share similarities, yet the industry unions aim to impose their own collective agreements. According to the unions, Verdi lacks sufficient membership in the airline industry and was appointed as a collective bargaining mediator by Lufthansa management.
Established in 2021, Discover Airlines operates 27 aircraft from Munich and Frankfurt, providing travel to various vacation spots in Europe and abroad. By 2027, the fleet is expected to expand to 33 aircraft. Approximately 1,900 individuals work for the airline, with an unknown number being union members.
The VC pilots have staged three strikes during the winter season. UFO has also encouraged its members to participate in labor actions to pressurize management into negotiations.
The Verdi contract offers regular wage increases between 16 and 38 percent for both professions by 2027, along with regulations regarding allowances, working hours, company pension schemes, or remedies in case of loss of flying license. For their own members, Verdi has secured extended notice periods and an extra half month's salary.
Harry Jaeger, UFO's tariff expert, stated, "The management's attitude leaves us with no other choice but to strike." The unions, VC, and UFO, are also vying for influence within the parent company, where they currently maintain a strong position in negotiating collective agreements. Management has started two airlines, Discover Airlines and non-unionized City Airlines, which can handle flights at lower costs than Lufthansa or its regional subsidiary, Lufthansa Cityline. This could potentially lead to a reduction in the fleet and job losses with standard collective agreement conditions.
In light of the ongoing labor disputes, the Commission may need to intervene and adopt implementing acts to ensure the smooth operation of Discover Airlines during this period of strikes. Failure to address these issues could result in further flight disruptions and delays for passengers.
To alleviate the impact of these strikes and potential job losses, the Commission shall consider the rules for collective bargaining agreements within the aviation industry, as outlined in their implementing acts.
