Air France-KLM’s low-cost carrier Transavia is at risk of walkouts by cabin crew this summer even after agreeing to pay bonuses to staff in a bid to maintain labor peace.
One of the carrier’s flight attendants’ unions, SNPNC, has issued a strike warning that runs through mid-September, without yet giving any specific dates, according to spokesman Lionel Trovao.
The labor agreement included special payouts and improved staff scheduling, a spokesman for the airline said, adding that when variable portions are added to base pay, compensation is above minimum wage.
Air France-KLM’s decision to grant extra compensation to Transavia staff in a bid to avert strikes comes amid travel disruptions across Europe. SAS AB, Ryanair Holdings Plc and EasyJet Plc have faced strikes while British Airways agreed to settle a dispute with check-in workers.
Any significant labor action at Transavia would shatter one of the achievements most vaunted by Air France-KLM Chief Executive Officer Ben Smith. He took the helm in 2018 following a period of crippling Air France strikes, and has said the labor peace that has followed is crucial for the turnaround of the embattled carrier.