An unexpected protest by ground handling workers at airports in Finland resulted in the redirection of flights for approximately 4,000 passengers. Nearly 20 flights were canceled altogether, informed Finnair, which considered the protest organized during the afternoon rush hour to be illegal.
Employees associated with the Aviation Sector Association (IUA) walked away from their posts for about two hours. According to the national carrier, the effects of the action have a “significant impact on air transport.”
80 percent of the flights postponed by a few hours are to be operated on Monday.
Reasons for the strike at the airport in Finland
Trade unionists have protested because Finnair plans to fire two employees acting as shop stewards. According to the carrier, they were to “disclose information important from the point of view of security to the outside world.”
The protest was attended by employees of broadly understood ground services, including airport support, as well as cargo, catering, security and traffic control services.
During the pre-Christmas period, on December 9 and 13, due to the previously announced strike of airline pilots associated with the national union (SLL), a total of approximately 300 flights will be canceled. Pilots are demanding salary increases and improvements in the pension system. The protest action disrupted the travel plans of approximately 33,000 people. passengers.
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