Chaos at KLM: 27,000 passengers affected after more than 100 flights canceled
KLM airline was forced to cancel more than 100 flights on Wednesday after ground crew staged a two-hour strike, leaving around 27,000 passengers searching for alternative travel plans. The company confirmed that delays are also expected in its network, especially on European flights.
The strike, which took place between eight and ten in the morning, was organized by the FNV and CNV unions. This step came after KLM's decision to sign a collective labor agreement with three smaller unions, bypassing the larger unions. Union leaders assert that the agreement does not address the fundamental issues faced by ground workers.
According to the FNV union, the agreed wage increase is insufficient and does not recognize the significant physical efforts made by workers such as baggage handling. The union also demands permanent contracts instead of relying heavily on temporary workers.
A spokesperson for FNV said: "Ground crew feel they are treated as second-class employees," highlighting the frustration behind the strike. Unions have warned that worker morale is at an all-time low due to feelings of being sidelined in negotiations.
KLM confirmed that it will rebook travelers on alternative flights but acknowledged that the disruption will be widespread. Unions have already announced a second, longer strike next week, this time for four hours, increasing the likelihood of greater chaos at Schiphol Airport.