The scheduling of Brussels Airlines’ cabin crew is facing criticism from the Christian trade union CNE, who accuses the airline’s management of unilateral manoeuvres regarding the allocation of leave and rest days.
CNE highlights an imbalance between the low and high seasons. During winter, many permanent employees experience a significant shortage of flying hours.
Cabin crew are required to complete a certain number of flight hours annually. In January and February, the union claims some employees fly half their usual hours, resulting in a loss of several hundred euros in wages.
The union has observed that flying hours are being assigned to temporary crew members, who were hired last autumn without consultation with trade unions.
In contrast, summer is a busy period for aviation. During this time, there is a shortage of leave and rest days, according to the union, which criticises the employer’s unilateral planning.
"This situation could compromise safety, with fatigue reaching dangerous levels," warns CNE.
The union representatives are calling for fair scheduling and a balanced distribution of rest periods and flying hours. They hope the employer will consider these recommendations to ensure a safe and pleasant summer for both staff and passengers.
