A surprise strike at Hamburg Airport has caused significant disruptions, affecting over 40,000 travelers and potentially impacting more than half a million people across Germany. The strike began unexpectedly on Sunday morning, catching many off guard as passengers were advised to stay away from the airport due to the sudden walkout.
Only 10 out of more than 280 scheduled flights managed to take off or land as planned on Sunday. The airport announced that it would remain closed for the entire day, citing a call to action from the ver.di union, which represents the airport’s staff. The union’s decision to strike came with little notice, leading to empty terminals and quiet check-in areas.
An airport spokesperson criticized the union’s actions, describing them as "dishonorable" and unfair to the many travelers who are not involved in the ongoing disputes. Passengers have been urged to contact their airlines for updates and alternative arrangements.
The situation is expected to worsen on Monday, as a planned 24-hour strike will take place at 13 major airports across Germany, including Berlin, Frankfurt, Dusseldorf, and Munich. This strike could lead to the cancellation of approximately 3,400 flights, according to the German Airport Association (ADV). The union aims to create economic pressure to negotiate better pay and working conditions for airport staff.
Union representative Lars Stubbe acknowledged the burden on passengers but emphasized the need for effective strikes to push for reasonable offers from employers. The union believes that the walkouts are necessary to achieve their goals in negotiations.
As the strike continues, travelers are left in a state of uncertainty, and the full impact of the disruptions is yet to be seen.