Blick: By a large majority, Swiss pilots voted for strike as a last resort in industrial action. What does this decision bring?
Thomas Steffen: We have been negotiating with the Swiss government for a new collective bargaining agreement (GAV) for several months. Pilots have been flying without a valid GAV since April 1. So far, the administration has not addressed the legitimate interests of the pilots. That’s why we started this survey.
What are the specific demands?
We want a modern contract. First of all, it is about better planning social life and also the prospects for the further development of the airline. In addition, inflation adjustment is required. The latest offer from Switzerland was much worse than the working conditions at the old GAV in 2018. For pilots, this is unacceptable.
What is acceptable?
Planning your private life should be easier. For example, pilots receive their work schedule on the 25th of the previous month. This makes looking after children or planning special events very difficult. Society has changed, this should be reflected in a CLA.
A better work schedule for pilots means less flexibility for Switzerland. So it needs more staff?
If pilots work more flexibly, the company will need fewer staff. Conversely, it is also clear that every request from staff has implications for the levels of staff Switzerland needs to operate its flights. But in recent years we have proven our resilience time and again – now it’s Switzerland’s turn.
Does this voting result give you confidence for the final round of negotiations?
It’s good to know that pilots are willing to pull away when needed. But we want a solution at the negotiating table. It has not yet been decided whether we will strike or not. We will inform you of additional measures on October 24, following the meeting between Aeropers President Clemens Klopetz and Swiss CEO Dieter Vranckx.
What are the chances of a last minute deal?
We have been negotiating with the Swiss administration for several months. Negotiations were very difficult. But you can develop this first high-level speech. That’s why we decided to maintain industrial peace next week and wait for the outcome of the summit meeting before making any further decisions.