Civil Aviation

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In Summary

Civil aviation is a significant driver of economic growth and jobs in Europe. However, large parts of the sector have lost their power as an engine able to generate direct employment.

In addition to this, the quality of jobs in aviation has deteriorated. The globalisation of air transport and its liberalisation in the early 1990s has led to a consolidation of the aviation industry without establishing a legal framework that protects workers’ rights. The European aviation industry must offer fair opportunities for workers, while rogue competition under the pretext of cheaper fares should be forbidden. The ETF civil aviation section works to achieve common positions and develop common policies on European issues to improve the quality of the jobs and working conditions for aviation workers.

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News November 27, 2024

ETF Attends Court Hearing on Union Busting Case in Air Serbia

Since last year, Air Serbia management has been carrying out flagrant union busting activities, notably by targeting the leading members of JSSSV. After numerous calls for international action and a petition in 2023, the ETF persists in its solidarity with the workers of the Central Union of Aeronautical Stewardesses and Stewards (JSSSV) of Serbia.

News November 22, 2024

For fair and sustainable employment in aviation: participate in the Ghent Study v2.0

In collaboration with social partners ECA and ENAA, the ETF has actively contributed to updating the Ghent Study survey, adapting it to the increasing complexity of aircrew employment, the liberalisation of the European aviation market and the emergence of new business models, such as wet-leasing. The resulting survey is now equipped to better capture complex working-hour schemes, intricate contractual ties and mental health struggles of aircrew workers.