March 18, 2026 — A Verdi-organised strike brought passenger operations at Berlin Brandenburg (BER) airport to a standstill on Wednesday, leaving terminals largely empty and disrupting travel across the capital.
The walkout began early in the day and is scheduled to continue until midnight. About 2,000 employees joined the action, including firefighters, air traffic controllers and terminal management staff. External contractors who provide some ground handling and security services did not take part, but their presence was insufficient to keep normal flight operations running.
Airport authorities reported roughly 445 cancellations, affecting an estimated 57,000 passengers. Many airlines informed customers in advance and offered rebookings or alternative travel arrangements, though a small number of travellers still arrived at BER unaware of the disruption.
Verdi said its demands include a 6% pay increase, a minimum monthly rise of €250 and an additional day off for union members. Employers presented an offer during the second round of talks last week that the union described as inadequate. The next round of negotiations is set for March 25.
Berlin Brandenburg Airport Company criticised the strike as disproportionate, saying it came amid already strained conditions that the operator linked to the fallout from the Iran war. CEO Aletta von Massenbach said she was hopeful a deal could be reached at the upcoming talks. Berlin’s transport senator, Ute Bonde, urged both sides to move quickly to resolve the dispute.
The disruption at BER added to a busy midweek for German politics in Berlin. Separately, Chancellor Friedrich Merz is scheduled to address the Bundestag at 14:00 local time to set out priorities ahead of an upcoming European Council summit. His remarks will emphasise EU competitiveness and developments in the Middle East and Ukraine.
A 60-minute debate will follow the chancellor’s statement. Economy Minister Katherina Reiche and Transport Minister Patrick Schnieder are due to take questions afterward. The parliamentary session will also include a debate on fuel pricing and consideration of an AfD motion calling for the repatriation of German gold reserves.
Passengers affected by the BER cancellations were advised to check with their airlines for rebooking options and up-to-date information as negotiations continue.