Lufthansa Pilots Pause Strike Action, Negotiations Continue
FRANKFURT, Germany – October 1, 2025, 5:48 p.m. – Lufthansa pilots will not immediately launch a strike, despite a majority vote authorizing industrial action, the Cockpit union announced today. The union is holding off on specific measures while leaving the door open for continued negotiations wiht Lufthansa management.
The decision comes as many passengers with the Lufthansa core company face uncertainty ahead of the autumn holidays, recalling past pilot strikes that resulted in widespread flight cancellations. While a strike remains possible, Cockpit is currently prioritizing a return to the negotiating table, seeking a resolution regarding company pension schemes.
VC President Andreas Pinheiro urged Lufthansa management on Tuesday to present a final offer concerning these pension plans. Lufthansa Human Resources Director Michael Niggemann responded by stating he welcomed the union’s willingness to resume negotiations, emphasizing that solutions coudl only be found through dialog.
Earlier Tuesday, the union secured a clear majority vote in favor of potential industrial action. However, approval was higher among pilots at Lufthansa Cargo than at the core passenger airline. According to President Pinheiro, this allows strikes to be initiated at any time.
A union spokeswoman confirmed today that no strike was decided following advice from the board and the collective bargaining commission in Frankfurt am Main.
