SAS cabin crew talks continue into overtime, strike threat remains
Translated from Norwegian, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- SAS and its cabin crew union are in overtime negotiations, with a strike deadline passing at midnight.
- A strike would involve 640 cabin employees and disrupt travel during the peak holiday season.
- Key issues in the talks include wages, unpredictable work hours, and cabin crew responsibility for onboard safety and health.
A potential strike looms over SAS after negotiations between the airline and its cabin crew union extended past the midnight deadline. Both Fellesforbundet and Parat confirmed that talks are continuing into overtime early Wednesday morning.
If the negotiations break down, 640 cabin employees are set to strike starting Wednesday. This action would significantly impact travelers during the busiest period of the year, the summer holidays. The potential disruption affects a large portion of SAS's flights from Wednesday morning, though flights operated by partner companies like 'SAS Connect' or 'SAS Link' would not be included.
According to the unions, the core issues in the ongoing dispute extend beyond just wages. The negotiations also address concerns about unpredictable work schedules and the cabin crew's responsibilities concerning safety and health aboard the aircraft. These factors are crucial for the employees and are central to the ongoing discussions.
The parties are working against the clock to find a resolution that satisfies both SAS and its cabin crew, aiming to avoid a strike that would have widespread consequences for passengers and the airline's operations during a critical travel period.
Originally published by Aftenposten in Norwegian. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.