More Strikes at Europe's Airlines

While the strikes at British Airways are earning many of the headlines, other strikes in Europe are also causing travel disruptions.

In Germany, pilots from Lufthansa are preparing for a second strike next month. A four-day walkout from April 13 is planned in a dispute over pay and job security. Lufthansa has been seeking to reduce costs amid falling demand and financial losses.

The German flag-carrier said in a statement that its latest offer was “compatible with the company’s situation and economic conditions.” Pilots have been told they must accept a pay freeze that may last up to two years. The pilots’ union, Vereinigung Cockpit, said in a statement: “We can only agree to a pay freeze or even reducing salaries if Lufthansa sticks to an already-agreed deal on safeguarding jobs.”

The pilots previously went on strike in February. However, pilots returned to work after just one day, following a decision by unions at airline officials to resume negotiations.

Meanwhile, the Italian carrier Alitalia canceled or delayed flights across the country because of a four-hour strike by pilots, flight attendants and baggage handlers yesterday, news agencies reported.

Air France crews are to walk off the job for four days beginning Sunday, and pilots at TAP Portugal are also in what the New York Times calls "a combative mood."

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