Germany is again facing significant air travel disruptions as strikes loom over Lufthansa, one of the country’s major airlines.
Frankfurt and Munich airports, two of Germany’s busiest hubs, expect significant chaos this Tuesday and Wednesday due to Lufthansa cabin crew union walkouts.
Why are Lufthansa’s cabin crew walking out?
The Independent Flight Attendants Organisation (UFO) is calling for a 15% pay increase and a €3,000 inflation compensation payment for its members.
Despite Lufthansa’s announcement of record profits in 2023, the union claims that cabin crew have not seen any benefits from these increased profits.
The strike, supported by over 96% of its members, follows similar walkouts last week, affecting around 200,000 passengers.
What do the strikes mean for travelers?
Flights within and outside Europe are being disrupted by ongoing strikes in the German air travel sector.
Strikes at major German airports like Frankfurt and Munich can disrupt flights, posing connection challenges and longer layovers, particularly for U.S.-bound foreign travelers.
These disruptions can significantly impact their overall travel plans.
Additionally, travelers from Visa Waiver Program (VWP) countries like Germany often depend on the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) for U.S. entry.
Strikes causing delays or cancellations could result in missed connections or flight rescheduling, potentially affecting ESTA validity and complicating entry procedures.
Foreign travelers must stay vigilant, monitor their flight status, and devise contingency plans to minimize travel disruptions to the United States amid increased air travel turmoil.
How to find out if your flight is affected
Passengers are advised to stay updated through email notifications, the Lufthansa app, or the airline’s website.
It is crucial to ensure that contact details are up to date for seamless communication. Travelers can check the dedicated page on the Lufthansa website for updates or follow the airline’s official channels for further information.
Refunds in the case of flight cancellations
The Lufthansa website, app, and service centers provide free rebooking for passengers affected by the strike. However, due to the strike, rebooking desks may not be staffed.
Under EU regulations, passengers are entitled to a full refund in case of flight cancellations.