24 March 2010

Lufthansa pilots will stage a four-day strike from April 13 after talks with management failed to end in agreement.

The pilot's union, Vereinigung Cockpit, was disputing a proposed pay freeze and has claimed bosses have failed to provide job security within its latest offer.

Analysts said the strike could cost the airline about $25 million per day.

Pilots voted to strike in February, but called off action at the 11th hour when both sides agreed to restart talks.

Lufthansa has offered workers a 21-month pay freeze with worsening contractual conditions.

A statement from the union said: "We can only agree to a pay freeze or even reducing salaries if Lufthansa sticks to an already-agreed deal on safeguarding jobs."

Pilots from Lufthansa's affiliate carrier Germanwings, and Lufthansa cargo pilots, will also join in the strike.

Lufthansa defended its offer by saying it was "compatible with the company's situation and economic conditions".