The Service Sector Employers Palta and the Finnish Aviation Union (IAU) have approved a settlement proposal presented July 13, by the National Conciliator. The proposal serves as the foundation for a new collective agreement covering aviation services in Finland and marks the end of a protracted period of negotiations.
Palta represents employers across the service sector, while the IAU advocates for aviation workers, including ground handling staff, technical personnel, and other key roles essential to the functioning of airports and airlines. The agreement impacts employees in ground operations and support services—an area that has experienced growing operational challenges and labour tensions in recent years.
The new collective agreement will remain in effect for approximately 1.5 years, concluding on January 15, 2027. It includes a wage solution in line with the general labour market framework, ensuring consistency with national economic trends while offering improvements to workers’ pay and conditions.
Key elements of the agreement include phased salary increases, updated shift arrangements aimed at improving work-life balance, better support for part-time and fixed-term staff, and initiatives focused on mental wellbeing and workplace inclusivity. Enhanced training opportunities and career development provisions have also been included.
Importantly, as a result of the agreement, the strikes previously announced by the IAU for 16, 18, 21, 23, and 25 July have been cancelled. Finnair confirmed it will operate its flights according to the normal schedule, bringing relief to passengers and airport operators alike.
