The SNPNC-FO union, representing French hostesses and stewards of the Spanish low-cost airline Vueling, is unhappy with negotiations with management and has indicated that they will continue with their planned strike from May 8 to 12. The union submitted the strike notice on April 29 and has been waiting for a response from management in hopes of resuming fair negotiations. However, management has not been cooperative and has even sent a threatening email to employees.
The lack of progress in negotiations is not the only issue at hand for the union. They are also unhappy with the working conditions at Vueling. The sustained pace of work with short rest periods, forced flights for some staff, and the use of employees on contracts that are not French have all raised concerns among workers. In addition, the CGT has joined forces with the SNPNC-FO in their efforts to improve working conditions at Vueling.
The strike notice coincides with the Ascension long weekend, a busy travel period. The SNPNC-FO had previously gone on strike in the spring of 2023, leading to the cancellation of numerous flights. They are now waiting for management to reach out in order to sit down and negotiate.
Vueling operates a network of 248 routes, including 42 in France, and carried over 34 million passengers in 2023. Founded in 2004 in Spain, the company is focused on low-cost travel and is part of the IAG group, which includes British Airways and Iberia. Despite its success, Vueling is facing challenges with its employees and negotiations with union representatives.