Finnair is preparing for major workforce changes as industrial action continues to disrupt operations. The airline has announced negotiations with its pilots, aiming to address potential layoffs and employment contract adjustments. The discussions, starting on February 12, could lead to up to 90 pilot reductions, depending on the review of Finnair’s cooperation agreements. Additionally, the airline seeks to formalize standby duty within pilot contracts, a move opposed by the Finnish Transport Pilots’ Association.

Finnair has strategically placed two Airbus A330 aircraft on wet lease with another airline, operating routes between Sydney, Bangkok, and Singapore. This agreement has sustained jobs for nearly 90 pilots, a crucial measure following Russian airspace restrictions. However, prolonged labor disputes have intensified, prompting the pilot union to ban standby duty. This action has disrupted partner airline operations and pilot positioning flights, forcing Finnair to reconsider its cooperation agreements.

The airline, which employs about 1,000 pilots, now faces operational uncertainty. If the cooperation agreement ends, pilot workloads will shrink, making layoffs inevitable. Finnair is also pushing to include standby duty in employment contracts, ensuring consistent flight operations. Traditionally, pilots have followed standby duty, but the union insists it should remain voluntary.

Collective agreement talks between Finnair and the pilots’ union have dragged on for months. Despite settlement proposals and government mediation efforts, negotiations remain deadlocked. Finnair has expressed willingness to accept proposed agreements, but union resistance has prolonged the conflict. As discussions continue, the airline must balance workforce stability with operational efficiency.

Finnair’s future depends on resolving these disputes. With labor tensions escalating, the airline faces critical decisions that will shape its employment structure. The outcome of these talks will determine how Finnair navigates this challenging phase.

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