KLM Cancels 108 Flights Across Europe Amid Ground Crew Strike

KLM has canceled over 100 flights impacting around 27,000 passengers due to a two-hour strike by its ground crew at Amsterdam Schiphol Airport as part of ongoing labor disputes over collective bargaining agreements. The ground staff, including baggage handlers and towing operators, are demanding better wages and more permanent jobs, arguing that the proposed 2.25 percent wage increase until 2026 does not keep pace with inflation and that there is an imbalance in compensation compared to pilots and management. Despite reaching agreements with three unions, KLM faces continued opposition from the FNV and CNV unions, which have called the deal inadequate and are planning further strikes, including a four-hour strike next week. The strike highlights the essential role of ground staff in airline operations, as their absence directly forces flight cancellations. The disruption follows a summer of labor unrest in European aviation, with other airlines like Ryanair also affected by strikes. KLM's situation underscores the fragile interdependencies in the aviation industry amid ongoing negotiations and workforce challenges.