Employees at Düsseldorf International Airport and Cologne Bonn Airport, two of Germany's most important airports, have been on a warning strike since this evening with the call of the Ver.di union. Flights were disrupted at these airports due to the strike.

Employees at Düsseldorf International Airport and Cologne Bonn Airport, two of Germany's most important airports, have started a 24-hour warning strike starting this evening with the call of the Ver.di union. While the union reported that the strike would have “serious effects” on passenger flights, most of the flights scheduled at the two airports were canceled.

The Ver.di union had called on airport workers to stage a warning strike after collective bargaining talks covering more than 2.5 million workers broke down on February 18. The Ver.di union is demanding an 8 percent salary increase on behalf of public employees, or a monthly raise of at least 350 euros.

Latest situation at Cologne Bonn Airport

At Cologne Bonn Airport, employees responsible for the loading and unloading of airplanes, check-in staff and flight dispatchers will join the strike. During the strike, 90 flights were scheduled at the airport, but airport officials said, “Serious disruptions to flight operations are expected.” According to information on the airport's website, around 50 flights have been canceled or diverted to other airports not affected by the strike.

At Düsseldorf International Airport, 270 flights were scheduled during the strike, but according to the airport's website, around 90 flights were canceled.

Passengers are entitled to compensation

Passengers whose flights have been canceled or delayed due to a strike can request free rebookings or refunds from airlines. According to EU regulations, passengers whose flights are canceled may also be entitled to compensation. Passengers are advised to contact their airline or travel agency for information about their flight status.