Ilona Wissenbach
FRANKFURT (Reuters) – Lufthansa pilots rejected a salary offer from the German flag carrier and could strike at any time, union VC said on Thursday.
They voted last month for strike action, threatening further disruptions during the busy summer travel season.
VC says Lufthansa’s recent offer is a step in the right direction, but falls short of union demands, which include a 5.5% pay rise for its pilots this year and automatic inflation thereafter compensate.
“Legal and organisational preparations for strike action have begun. Nonetheless, it is clear that (VC) can still be contacted,” the union said. Lufthansa Cargo Thursday morning.
“At the same time, we would like to propose a date for further talks with the VC and therefore the union. We can continue negotiations at any time,” the airline said.
Strikes and staff shortages have forced airlines including Lufthansa to cancel thousands of flights this summer and caused frustrating hours-long queues at major airports of holidaymakers are keen to travel after the COVID-19 lockdown.
Earlier this month, Lufthansa’s management reached a pay deal with ground staff, avoiding further escalation after a strike forced it to cancel more than 1 flight Strike, 000 flight.
It also faces a possible strike by Eurowings pilots industrial action will end in August 31.
