Agreement reached on new collective framework agreement at Condor
The trade union Unabhängige Flugbegleiter Organisation (UFO) and the airline Condor have reached an agreement on a new collective framework agreement for cabin crew. The agreement will take effect on January 1, 2027. It consolidates the various collective bargaining terms – which previously differed based on an employee’s date of joining – into a single, unified agreement. Key priorities include, in particular, more time off, more reliable duty scheduling, and better protection for scheduled days off.
An overview of the key innovations
Key innovations include additional guaranteed days off and expanded opportunities for staff to incorporate personal preferences into shift scheduling. Furthermore, the requirements for standby duty are being adjusted, and the method for assessing workload during flight operations is undergoing a fundamental redesign. The aim is to ensure that the actual strain experienced by cabin crew is taken into account more realistically in the future. At the same time, these new regulations are designed to accommodate the airline’s operational requirements.
Challenging negotiations in a difficult market environment
According to the union, the collective agreement was preceded by extensive preparations. The negotiations were based on a survey of members and a comprehensive list of demands. As early as February 2026, both sides had agreed upon a set of common key points.
The subsequent discussions regarding the final terms of the agreement proved difficult, given the economic situation in the aviation industry. In particular, rising jet fuel costs and high government levies and fees are putting pressure on German airlines. Condor, too, faces the challenge of remaining economically viable under these conditions while simultaneously continuing to develop its route network and its own feeder connections.
An important signal for employees and collective bargaining partnerships
UFO views the agreement as an especially significant signal for the collective bargaining partnership. It demonstrates that improvements for employees can be negotiated even under difficult economic conditions. Furthermore, the union hopes that this agreement will lead to long-term job security and further new hires.
UFO board member Mohammad Sotoudeh particularly emphasized the importance of improved time-off arrangements and more reliable duty rosters. Especially given the fluctuating work schedules inherent in flight operations, the ability to plan days off and ensure effective protection of rest periods is of great significance for cabin crew.
In closing, Sotoudeh commended the work of the negotiating team. Given the complex issues and difficult circumstances, the talks had required a high degree of perseverance and technical precision.
Further articles on UFO and Condor
UFO negotiates an additional relief package for cabin crew at Condor
