BERLIN, April 15 (Reuters) - The German pilots union VC said on Wednesday that Lufthansa has rejected its offer of arbitration in their ongoing labour dispute. (Writing by Miranda MurrayEditing by
Lufthansa, pilots union deadlocked on arbitration offer
Dispute Over Arbitration Terms Between Lufthansa and VC Pilots' Union
BERLIN, April 15 (Reuters) - Germany's VC pilots' union and airline Lufthansa are deadlocked on whether to enter arbitration after both parties put forward different conditions to take up the offer.
Union's Position and Strike Threat
VC, which has threatened strike action, said on Wednesday that Lufthansa <LHAG.DE> had rejected its offer of arbitration in their ongoing labour dispute.
Lufthansa's Conditions for Arbitration
Lufthansa had made far-reaching demands a condition for the proceedings, including not only addressing outstanding labour disputes at the core Lufthansa brand and its cargo subsidiary, but also existing contracts, some with long terms, it said.
Concerns Over Established Agreements
This calls established agreements into question, added VC representative Andreas Pinheiro.
Lufthansa's Response and Arbitration Scope
In response, a spokesperson for the airline group said it was still open to arbitration.
Statement from Lufthansa
"We are prepared for extensive arbitration for Lufthansa Classic and Lufthansa Cargo," said a Lufthansa spokesperson in a statement.
Key Issues for Arbitration
"For a fresh start, all our major collective bargaining issues must be included in arbitration: retirement and transitional benefits, compensation, and also working conditions."
(Writing by Miranda MurrayEditing by Madeline Chambers)
