Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER) will cancel all passenger flights on Wednesday due to a strike by the Verdi union. According to airport officials, 445 departures and arrivals will be affected, impacting approximately 57,000 passengers.
Strike Details
Verdi has called on employees of Flughafen Berlin Brandenburg (FBB) to participate in a full-day warning strike on Monday. According to Verdi, employees of the airport fire department, workshops, and administration are among those called to strike. Areas such as security checks and baggage handling are not affected.
FBB has advised affected passengers to contact their respective airlines for information on rebooking and alternative travel arrangements.
Negotiations and Background
The warning strike is occurring amid ongoing wage negotiations. BER management described the strike as “disproportionate,” particularly given the already tense situation due to the Iran-Krieg. Verdi, yet, spoke of a “refusal to negotiate” on the part of the employers.
Verdi Represents Approximately 2,000 BER Employees
Verdi is currently negotiating with Flughafen Berlin Brandenburg for higher wages for around 2,000 employees. The next round of negotiations is scheduled for March 25.
The union is demanding a 6.0 percent increase in wages, or at least an additional 250 euros per month, depending on the group and level. Verdi is similarly seeking an additional day off for union members. The proposed term is 12 months.
According to Verdi, employers offered a wage increase in several steps with a term until the end of 2028 during the second round of negotiations. This would include a freeze until June, followed by an increase of 1 percent from July 2026, 1.5 percent from July 2027, and another 1 percent from May 2028.
Pilots at Lufthansa recently went on strike – also impacting BER.
Reported by rbb24 Inforadio on March 16, 2026, at 6:30 PM.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the reason for the strike?
The strike is a result of ongoing wage negotiations between Verdi and Flughafen Berlin Brandenburg (FBB) for approximately 2,000 employees.
How many flights are affected?
445 departures and landings are expected to be canceled on Wednesday due to the strike, impacting around 57,000 passengers.
When is the next round of negotiations scheduled?
The next round of negotiations between Verdi and FBB is scheduled for March 25.
As negotiations continue, will the demands of Verdi be met, or will further disruptions to air travel at BER occur?
