Finland: Air traffic controller strike extended January 29 /update 1

Event

The SLJY labor union, representing air traffic controllers nationwide, extended an ongoing strike from Tuesday, January 29, and threatened to launch additional work stoppages from Saturday, February 2, through Friday, February 15, due to an ongoing contract dispute. According to SLJY, the work stoppages will continue on Thursdays from 13:00 to 15:00 (local time), with additional strikes planned on Tuesdays and Saturdays from 02:00 to 08:00 through February 15 or until the dispute is resolved. Flight delays and cancelations are expected nationwide, including at Helsinki Airport (HEL), in the coming weeks should the strike go ahead as planned.

Context

The latest round of negotiations between labor representatives and airport management entity Traffic Management Finland ended on January 14 without a new contract agreement. Union officials stated either side was far from a resolution. 

Advice

Individuals flying to or from Finland on the abovementioned dates are advised to monitor the situation, confirm reservations, and contact their airline for additional information.