On Monday, February 24, 2025, warning strikes by the Verdi union led to significant disruptions to air traffic at Cologne/Bonn and Düsseldorf airports. In Cologne/Bonn, the strike began on Sunday evening, resulting in the cancellation of a total of 106 passenger flights. The terminals were largely empty, as most travelers canceled their trip to the airport based on prior information from the airlines.
In Düsseldorf, the strike began in the early hours of Monday morning. Here, too, there were numerous flight cancellations and delays. Verdi had called on public sector employees and ground service employees to strike in order to exert pressure in the ongoing wage negotiations. The union is demanding a salary increase of eight percent or at least 350 euros more per month, increased bonuses for stressful work, 200 euros more for trainees and interns, and three additional days off. The next round of negotiations is planned for March 14 to 16 in Potsdam.
The airports recommended that passengers check the status of their flights in advance and consider alternative travel plans if necessary. Despite the disruption, the situation at the terminals was largely calm, as many passengers were informed of the cancellations in advance. Regular operations are expected to resume at both airports today, Tuesday, February 25.