Lufthansa, UFO union sign arbitration agreement

Lufthansa and the Independent Flight Attendants' Organisation (UFO) have agreed on arbitration talks, which will continue until June 30. During this period, "industrial peace will be obligatory," Lufthansa said. Prior to the arbitration, the social partners had already agreed on a new collective wage settlement as well as a new agreement for the future pensions and transitional benefits of Lufthansa cabin staff. The collective wage agreement will be valid until Sept 30, 2016. For 2015, 19,000 cabin staff will receive a single payment of E3,000 (US$3,263). As of Jan 1, 2016, wages have been increased 2.2%. Lufthansa said agreements have already been signed regarding the future pensions and transitional benefits. Details that are still in dispute must be negotiated by Feb 15 or they will be brought to arbitration. <br/>