Delays loom as unions warn of Zaventem strikes

10 July 2006

BRUSSELS — Holidaymakers face delays in coming days at Zaventem Airport due to looming strikes.

Unions ACOD Telecom Vliegwezen and ACV Transcom have officially warned airport operator BIAC of planned strike action.

The warning ends on Friday, but spontaneous strikes could be initiated in coming hours or days, news agency Belga reported on Monday.

The strike warning was confirmed by ACV Transcom spokesman Jan François.

Both unions decided last week to present the CAO collective labour agreement to BIAC staff. However, they decided against ‘selling’ the proposed agreement.

There is also discord over salaries, service rosters and performance contracts.

“If the BIAC fire brigade goes on strike, the airport will be closed,” François said.

He said BIAC has 750 workers, spread across the fire brigade, security department, administrative and logistical wings.

Meanwhile, anyone travelling from Belgium with SN Brussels Airlines (SNBA) to Barcelona or Madrid will reach their destination.

This is despite the fact a large number of flights have been cancelled due to a strike by Iberia staff.

SNBA said passengers will be able to travel with other flights that will be carried out by SNBA or Virgin.

Subject: Belgian news