Birmingham Airport Disrupted by 13 Flight Cancellations on Monday
Birmingham Airport experienced significant disruption on Monday, April 13, with a total of thirteen flights cancelled. The cancellations primarily affected routes operated by Eurowings and Lufthansa, as a result of industrial action by German pilots.
German Pilots' Union Calls Two-Day Strike
The Vereinigung Cockpit (VC) union, representing over 10,000 pilots across various German airlines, initiated a two-day strike on Monday and Tuesday. This action stems from unresolved wage disputes, including pension issues, with Lufthansa management.
Andreas Pinheiro, VC President, stated: "Despite a deliberate decision to refrain from strike action over the Easter holidays, no serious offers were forthcoming. During this time, there was neither a response nor any discernible willingness to negotiate on the part of the employers."
Pinheiro added that the strike could be averted if employers submit negotiable offers. The union confirmed that Eurowings GmbH flights, including those to and from Birmingham Airport (BHX), would be impacted.
Lufthansa's Response and Additional Union Action
Lufthansa responded by saying it is working intensively to minimise the impact on passengers. Meanwhile, the Unabhängige Flugbegleiter Organisation (UFO), representing cabin crew, also called for strikes last week at Lufthansa and Lufthansa CityLine GmbH, citing management's refusal to negotiate on social plan demands.
Full List of Cancelled Flights at Birmingham Airport
The following departures and arrivals were cancelled on Monday:
Departures
- 07:45 - Dusseldorf - Eurowings EW 9331
- 10:20 - Frankfurt - Lufthansa LH 955
- 15:45 - Dusseldorf - Eurowings EW 9333
- 17:55 - Munich - Lufthansa LH 2511
- 18:20 - Frankfurt - Lufthansa LH 957
- 20:05 - Dusseldorf - Eurowings EW 9335
Arrivals
- 07:05 - Dusseldorf - Eurowings EW 9330
- 09:45 - Frankfurt - Lufthansa LH 955
- 15:05 - Dusseldorf - Eurowings EW 9332
- 17:10 - Munich - Lufthansa LH 2510
- 17:40 - Frankfurt - Lufthansa LH 956
- 19:15 - Dusseldorf - Eurowings EW 9334
- 21:25 - Frankfurt - Lufthansa LH 958
Passengers are advised to check with their airlines for updates and alternative arrangements. The strike action highlights ongoing labour tensions in the German aviation sector, with potential for further disruptions if disputes remain unresolved.
