Sydney’s iconic New Year’s Eve fireworks display is threatened by industrial action from rail unions, causing concerns about public safety and potential cancellation. Police express serious worries over transportation disruptions, while the union claims adequate staffing will be provided. Negotiations remain stalled, impacting tourism and the city’s economy.
Avinor AS, Norway’s state-owned airport operator, is bracing for industrial action by members of the Norwegian Air Traffic Controllers’ Association (NTL). In the event of a strike, which could commence on June 12, 2024, around 140 employees will withdraw from various airports across the country. The strike would have significant consequences for air traffic operations, leading to disruptions and cancellations at affected airports. Passengers are advised to follow airline updates and check Avinor’s website for travel information.
Austrian Airlines has announced its second-worst first-quarter performance in the company’s history, primarily due to a combination of factors including industrial action, reduced bookings, and increased operating costs. Total revenues reached EUR 403 million, comparable to Q1 2023 figures despite an 11% increase in operations. However, total expenses grew by 11% to EUR 538 million, leading to an adjusted EBIT of EUR -122 million and marking a 67% decline compared to Q1 2023.
Heathrow Airport is set to experience significant disruptions due to two separate rounds of industrial action planned in May. Refuelers and passenger services personnel will stage strikes, potentially leading to flight cancellations, delays, and chaos during the busy Early May Bank Holiday weekend. AFS, the fuel supplier responsible for refueling aircraft at Heathrow, is facing a dispute with its striking employees over cuts to their terms and conditions. Unite the union, representing passenger services and security workers, is also involved in a separate dispute with Heathrow Airport’s management, alleging deplorable treatment and outsourcing of jobs.
London Heathrow, the UK’s busiest airport, has reported a record number of passengers in the first three months of 2024, with 18.5 million people traveling through the airport. However, the airport is facing the threat of disruption due to planned industrial action by various unions representing border force staff, aircraft refuellers, firefighters, and other personnel. Heathrow’s chief financial officer, Javier Echave, expressed confidence in the airport’s ability to handle the strikes and assured passengers that they would have a seamless experience. Despite the potential for disruption, Heathrow remains optimistic about its future, with passenger numbers expected to reach 82.4 million this year, a new record.
National rail strikes by train drivers will enter a third summer with a series of “rolling” walkouts, one region at a time, during May. The strikes aim to halt thousands of trains on May 7, 8, and 9, 2024, targeting commuters who typically travel to work on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays. The Rail Delivery Group (RDG), representing 14 rail firms in England, will be impacted by the disruptions. Additionally, six days of overtime bans from May 6 to 11 will cause further cancellations. The dispute between train drivers and rail firms stems from disagreements over pay and working arrangements, with drivers demanding a pay increase to address inflation and rail firms seeking changes to working practices to reduce costs.
