Nationwide Airport Strikes Disrupt Travel for Over 500,000 Passengers

A 24-hour Verdi-led strike at 13 German airports grounds thousands of flights as workers demand higher pay and better conditions.

The strike, organized by the Verdi union, affects 13 major airports across Germany, including Frankfurt, Berlin, Hamburg, and Munich, leading to the cancellation of over 3,400 flights.
Approximately 510,000 passengers are unable to travel as planned, with significant disruptions reported in both domestic and international flight schedules.
Verdi is demanding an 8% wage increase or at least €350 more per month, along with three additional vacation days, citing stalled negotiations with employers.
The strike impacts public service workers, ground handling staff, and aviation security personnel, with some airports reporting near-total shutdowns of operations.
Critics, including industry representatives, argue the strike is disproportionate and unfairly burdens passengers, while Verdi plans further actions if negotiations do not progress.