Canso urges German Air Traffic Controllers to cancel strike

The planned six-hour strike follows the breakdown of lengthy salary negotiations between DFS, the air navigation service provider for Germany, and GdF, the union which represents 3,400 of the 5,500 DFS personnel.

By refusing to work, the countrys air traffic controllers would effectively close one of Europes busiest airspace regions at the height of the holiday season. The impact would be felt not only by those travelling to and from Germany, but also by travellers right across Europe with up to 3,000 flights either cancelled or delayed.

Furthermore, the removal of air navigation services, even for a short time, will result in serious economic consequences for the airlines as well as the countless companies across Europe that rely on aviation for the timely movement of people, goods and services.

This is unacceptable.

Aviation is a critical public service. With due respect to the air traffic controllers grievances, either perceived or actual, the interruption of air traffic services should not be used as a negotiating tool for any reason.

CANSO calls on GdF to consider the impact on our society - the hundreds of thousands of travellers who would be inconvenienced, as well as the wider economic implications of the planned action.
CANSO therefore urges GdF to cancel the planned industrial action.

Any outstanding issues should be pursued in a responsible manner through appropriate mechanisms, such as negotiation and mediation.