Finnair cabin crew strike extends to airport services, several carriers affected

Finnair cancelled a further 180 services on 07-Dec-2010 as a number of unions launched supportive strike action against the carrier in support of the Cabin Crew Union (AFP/Reuters/YLE, 07-Dec-2010). Transport Workers' Union ceased delivering fuel to Finnair aircraft, while other unions took measures that will affect catering, check-in services, ground handling, de-icing, cargo and postal services. On 07-Dec-2010, the Finnish Aviation Union (IAU) announced it expanded the list of Helsinki Airport services it would deny the carrier to include maintenance, repairs and inspections of the company's aircraft. British Airways is among 10 carriers that will be affected by the 07-Dec-2010 announcement. Talks between the union and Finnair ceased on 06-Dec-2010 when the union rejected a compromise proposal from state labour mediator Esa Lonka. Since the strike began on 30-Nov-2010, more than 1400 services have been canceled, affecting more than 74,000 travellers, with 40% of its scheduled flights operated. The carrier says it will be able to operate on some routes with Director of Communications, Taneli Hassinen confident "the situation would be reviewed in a couple of day's time". [more]