Employee Strikes Disturb the Travel Industry: What Can European Airlines Do to Stay in the Air?

Abstract

In 2022, a series of worker strikes across Europe plagued its aviation industry. Several airline staff in Italy, Germany, Spain, France, and Portugal were negotiating with their management for better pay and working conditions in the face of skyrocketing inflation rates and staff shortages. Seeking to improve the terms and conditions of their employment, airline staff were protesting by staging walkouts, which led to flight cancellations and delays. This case uncovers the underlying reasons behind the strikes. What is at stake for airline companies if they do not address the concerns of thousands of workers, who are essential for the business to continue?