Germany Faces Widespread Transport Strikes, Stranding Thousands

Unions demand higher wages and better conditions amid ongoing negotiations.

Thousands of travelers in Germany were stranded due to a one-day strike by the Ver.di labor union, affecting flights at seven major airports.
The strikes are part of a series of industrial actions across the rail, air, and local transport sectors, with unions demanding higher wages and better working conditions.
Ver.di is seeking a 12.5% pay raise for airport workers, among other demands, while railway workers' union GDL calls for reduced working hours without a pay cut.
Contract negotiations are ongoing, with more warning strikes or longer strikes possible if agreements are not reached.
Over 100,000 flight passengers have been impacted, with Lufthansa urging customers not to come to the airport if their flight is canceled.