Air New Zealand Cabin Crew to Strike on December 8

Unionised members of Air New Zealand’s cabin crew will stage a full-day strike on December 8, 2023, in response to ongoing disputes over pay and working conditions. The strike, which is expected to significantly impact flight operations, comes as negotiations between the airline and the Cabin Crew Union reach an impasse.

This announcement follows a series of negotiations that have failed to yield satisfactory results for the union members. The Cabin Crew Union has been advocating for improved salaries and better working conditions, citing increasing workloads and inflationary pressures. The union argues that the current compensation does not reflect the demands placed on cabin crew staff.

In a statement, the Cabin Crew Union expressed disappointment over the lack of progress in talks with Air New Zealand. “Our members deserve fair treatment and compensation for the crucial role they play in ensuring passenger safety and comfort,” said the union spokesperson. The strike aims to send a clear message to the airline that workers will not accept inadequate conditions.

Air New Zealand has acknowledged the strike notice and is currently working to mitigate disruptions. The airline is encouraging passengers to check their flight status and make necessary adjustments to their travel plans. While the company has expressed a commitment to resolving the issues, it has not yet provided specific details on how it plans to address the union’s demands.

The strike could potentially affect thousands of passengers, as Air New Zealand is one of the primary carriers in the region. The airline operates numerous domestic and international flights, and the impact of this action may lead to delays and cancellations.

Passengers are urged to stay informed through official communication channels, as the airline prepares for the strike. The union has indicated that further actions may follow if negotiations do not progress favourably after the strike date.

As the situation develops, both Air New Zealand and the Cabin Crew Union are under pressure to reach an agreement that meets the needs of the workers while ensuring operational continuity for the airline. The outcome of the strike and subsequent negotiations will likely have lasting implications for the airline’s workforce and its reputation among passengers.

The events surrounding this strike highlight the ongoing challenges faced by airlines globally, as they navigate employee relations in an evolving economic landscape.