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PortuguêsKLM cancels 119 flights as ground staff stage third consecutive strike over wage disputes. The six-hour walkout escalates labor tensions at Amsterdam Schiphol Airport.
Third Consecutive Strike Disrupts Amsterdam Schiphol Operations
KLM Royal Dutch Airlines has announced the cancellation of 119 flights scheduled for Wednesday as ground staff prepare for their third consecutive strike action. The six-hour walkout, organized by unions FNV and CNV, will run from 06:00 to 12:00 local time, significantly impacting operations at Amsterdam Airport Schiphol.
The escalating labor dispute centers on wage negotiations that have reached an impasse. While KLM recently reached agreement with three other unions representing ground personnel, FNV and CNV have rejected the proposed 2.25% salary increase over two years, demanding higher compensation for their members.
Growing Labor Unrest
This marks the third strike in as many weeks, with previous actions lasting 2 and 4 hours respectively. The pattern shows a concerning escalation in the conflict between management and ground staff, who perform critical functions including passenger check-in, baggage handling, and aircraft guidance on the tarmac.
"We cannot accept an offer that fails to keep pace with inflation and the rising cost of living," stated a union representative from FNV. "Our members deserve fair compensation for their essential work keeping Europe's fourth-busiest airport operational."
Passenger Impact and Compensation
Travelers affected by the cancellations are being rebooked on alternative flights or offered refunds. KLM has activated its contingency plans, but the scale of this strike—affecting over 100 flights—represents the most significant disruption to date in the ongoing labor dispute.
The airline emphasized that it remains committed to finding a resolution, but the widening gap between management and the striking unions suggests further disruptions may be inevitable. Another eight-hour strike has already been announced for next Wednesday, indicating the conflict is far from resolved.
According to KLM's Wikipedia entry, the airline employs approximately 35,000 staff worldwide and operates a fleet of 110 aircraft, making it one of Europe's major carriers.
