Berlin, 18 March 2026 (dpa/MIA) - Passenger air traffic at Berlin's international airport is set to grind to a halt on Wednesday after trade union Verdi called a strike over an ongoing pay dispute.

Around 445 departures and arrivals, involving a total of 57,000 passengers, are to be affected by the day-long industrial action beginning at 6 am (0500 GMT).

Several flights have already been cancelled and passengers are advised to contact their airlines for information on alternative travel arrangements and rebooking.

Verdi, one of Europe's biggest trade unions, is negotiating with the operator of Berlin-Brandenburg Airport, FBB, seeking a salary increase of 6% or at least €250 ($287) for its 2,000 employees under a new collective agreement set to run for 12 months.

The union has also been pushing for an additional day off for union members.

During the second round of talks last week, employer representatives presented an initial offer that Verdi said did not go far enough.

FBB head Aletta von Massenbach called the industrial action disproportionate "especially in the already very tense situation due to the war in Iran."

She expressed confidence that an agreement would be reached at the next round of negotiations scheduled for March 25.

Photo: dpa