The Finnish airport strike is set to impact ground staff across multiple airports on 7 July as the Finnish Aviation Union issued a third strike warning. This latest stoppage follows previous actions planned for 2 and 4 July. Each strike will last four hours and will disrupt essential airport services.
On Sunday, the National Conciliator’s Office confirmed the third strike notice through the social media platform X. The stoppage will involve several airport service companies responsible for baggage handling, technical support, catering, cargo, and air navigation services.
Due to the ongoing Finnish airport strike, Finnair has already cancelled hundreds of flights in recent weeks. Last week alone, the airline cancelled 140 flights on Tuesday and 128 on Thursday, significantly affecting travelers.
The root of the dispute lies between the Finnish Aviation Union and the Service Sector Employers group, known as Palta. The union claims there were agreed pay increases during the pandemic years that were never implemented. Palta denies that any such agreement ever existed.
Negotiations between the two parties are scheduled to resume Monday morning. The National Conciliator’s Office said discussions might continue throughout the week if necessary to reach a resolution.
This conflict has persisted for six months and has already caused disruptions to key airport services in Finland. The Aviation Union represents workers from vital airport sectors including baggage handlers, technicians, catering staff, cargo operators, and air traffic support personnel.
The Finnish airport strike directly affects essential ground staff who manage day-to-day operations at airports. These workers handle baggage, maintain technical systems, provide catering, manage cargo, and support air navigation. The union’s strike actions aim to pressure employers to meet their demands on pay adjustments.
Travelers should prepare for flight delays and cancellations due to the ongoing strike actions. Airlines like Finnair have already been forced to cancel multiple flights, and further disruptions on 7 July are expected. Monitoring airline communications and booking flexible travel plans are advisable.
Negotiations between the Finnish Aviation Union and Palta will continue in the coming week. Both sides remain at odds over compensation claims related to pay increases during the pandemic years. The National Conciliator’s Office is facilitating the talks to avoid further strike action.
