Trade union FNV foresees chaos again in the May holidays, due to a persistent shortage of staff among the luggage carriers. The union calls on all airlines at Schiphol to tackle the high workload among handling staff. According to FNV, it is the turn of the companies to turn the tide by filling their pockets for higher wages and improved working conditions.
At Schiphol, the handling of flights and travelers is done by eight companies. Airlines conclude contracts with these handling companies for, among other things, loading and unloading luggage and checking in passengers. Unions have been complaining for years about the high number of handling companies at Schiphol. The companies would outcompete each other, at the expense of the staff.
FNV believes that the airlines can ensure that a new May holiday chaos is avoided by improving working conditions at Schiphol and the remuneration of staff. The union has sent the airlines a letter calling for action today.
Improvement in security personnel
The positive approach of FNV to Schiphol’s recruitment campaign for new security personnel is striking. According to the union, the wages of the security guards have improved significantly and the schedules look better. The staff shortage in security at Schiphol was one of the main causes of last year’s continuing chaos. FNV calls on the airlines to follow Schiphol’s example.
New job market
Barin, the interest group of airlines, has not yet responded to FNV’s call. A Schiphol spokesperson said that the airport is aware of the staff shortage at the handling companies. “We are working on employing enough staff before the May holidays. Not only for handlers and security, but also for cleaning companies.”
Another large job fair will be held at Schiphol on Saturday 4 February. Next week, the airport will make the decision about the restriction still in force for departing passengers. Fewer travelers can fly from Schiphol since the summer. If there is enough staff and confidence, that brake can be released from the May holiday.