An unexpected strike by ground handling workers at Finnish airports has led to the rerouting of flights for around 4,000 passengers. About 20 flights were canceled in total, Finnair said, calling the protest organized during the afternoon rush hour illegal.
Employees of the Aviation Trade Union (IUA) left their posts for almost two hours. According to the national airline, the consequences of this action have a “significant impact on air transport”.
80 percent of flights delayed by a few hours will be made on Monday.
Reasons for the strike at the Finnish airport
Unions protested as Finnair plans to sack two workers who acted as shop stewards. According to the carrier, they were supposed to “disclose security-critical information to the outside world.”
Ground handling staff, including airport support, as well as cargo, catering, security and traffic control staff, participated in the protest.
A total of around 300 flights will be canceled in the run-up to Christmas, December 9 and 13, due to the previously announced strike by pilots of national union-affiliated (SLL) airlines. Pilots demand an increase in salary and improvement of the pension system. The protest disrupted the travel plans of about 33,000 passengers.
Main photo: Martin Metzenbauer / Shutterstock.com
