The Situation:
Germany's Lufthansa Airlines is cancelling more than 800 flights for Friday, likely affecting 130,000 passengers, after the pilots' union announced a one-day strike.
The 24-hour strike begining after midnight on Thursday will affect both passenger and cargo services.
Lufthansa said flight cancellations would affect Frankfurt and Munich airports. In Frankfurt, approximately 678 flights while 345 flights were canceled in Munich.
Possible Effects:
Last minute cancellation of existing flights.
Increased wait times at airports due to lack of personnel
Decreased security personnel and measures at affected airports
Delays in incoming and outgoing flights to Germany
Decrease in available services at affected German airports
Possible loss or delay of personal baggage at airport
Possible demonstrations at transportation hubs
Mitigating Factors to Apply:
Prepare for local transportation disruptions, such as increased traffic and security, blocked roads, and potential travel into demonstration sites
Check the local situation (local and social media, embassy, POC at the destination, etc.) prior to travel
Avoid all protests and demonstrations, which have the possibility of turning violent and may serve as a catalyst for Covid-19 spread
Allow extra time for travel
Consider choosing airlines with low cancellation rates
Avoid flying through severely congested airports or airports with a history of significant delays, when possible
Strongly consider booking flights directly through an airline as opposed to third party booking services
Book flights and other transportation services as early as possible
Monitor local and social media for updates
Enroll in a Safe Traveler program to receive warnings from your preferred embassy
Confirm transportation availability and itineraries before departing
Plan for alternative transportation, if necessary
Consider only utilizing carry-on baggage to mitigate loss or delay of personal effects
DISCLAIMER and Hold Harmless Disclaimer: LSDS™ gathers information from multiple sources and offers insight and perspective to travelers. Sources cannot be validated for accuracy in every instance. Travelers assume all risk associated with their travel and are responsible for the decisions associated with travel and for their own safety. Users of this reference document agree, to hold harmless LSDS™ (LLC) its employees and clients associated with any risk or injury incurred during travel.