After months of tough negotiations, the Vida union and Austrian Airlines reached an agreement on a wage increase for its on-board staff. According to a release from Vida, the salaries of around 2,500 flight attendants and 1,000 pilots will be gradually increased by 20 percent by 2026. The salaries of the co-pilots will also increase by a further eleven percent.
The negotiated solution represents a significant increase in salaries above the inflation rate for the AUA’s on-board staff. Daniel Liebhart, Chairman of the Aviation Department in Vida, stated that this is a victory for both employees and customers alike. The agreement provides the company with planning security as the wage increase will be staggered over three years.
The agreement is subject to a positive vote by union members, which is expected to be a formality. The agreement also includes a peace obligation, preventing operational disruptions due to strikes until 2026. This will allow travelers to book their flights with Austrian Airlines without hesitation in the coming years. Depending on the fiscal year 2025 outcomes, salaries could increase by an additional two percentage points in April 2026. Workload reduction and insurance improvements for medical-related flight license loss are also part of the deal.
Günther Ofner, head of Vienna Airport, welcomed the outcome of the negotiations, providing relief for both employees and customers. The agreement will ensure the stability of operations and prevent future strikes, allowing the company to focus on its continued growth and customer service.
The negotiations were challenging, lasting 20 rounds since mid-January, causing work stoppages and flight cancellations leading to significant financial losses for Austrian Airlines. However, after much back-and-forth between management and union representatives, an agreement was finally reached that benefits all parties involved.
While some may argue that Lufthansa should have been used as a benchmark when setting wages at Austrian Airlines (AUA), it ultimately came down to finding common ground that would benefit both employees and customers alike.
In conclusion, this negotiated solution represents a significant increase in salaries above inflation rates for AUA’s on-board staff while ensuring continued stability of operations at Vienna Airport through prevention of future strikes.