Iberia and Unions Reach Agreement for Future-Proof Handling Company

After weeks of intricate negotiations, Iberia and its unions have successfully navigated discussions, paving the way for a sustainable and profitable future for their handling business. This milestone, set against the backdrop of stability for the workforce and under Iberia’s majority within the IAG umbrella, marks the resolution of a challenging phase for the airline and its employees, highlighted by a January airport strike.

Expressing satisfaction, Iberia’s President, Fernando Candela, underscored the significance of achieving a collaborative agreement that transforms a crisis into an opportunity. The agreement lays the foundation for a new handling company, fully owned by the IAG group, with Iberia holding the majority stake. This initiative introduces a new brand focused on both domestic and international expansion. Critical components of the viability plan include the integration of all airport employees from various centers into the new company while maintaining existing conditions and rights. Additionally, voluntary separation measures for up to 1,727 employees until December 31, 2026, are part of the agreement.

In a departure from job cuts, Iberia is committed to rejuvenating its workforce by replacing departing employees based on company growth and profitability. The company has also committed to signing an employment stability plan and establishing a Vocational Training Centre for handling professionals at its La Muñoza headquarters, located adjacent to the Adolfo Suárez-Madrid Barajas airport.

As a result of this agreement, the newly formed company will provide ground assistance services for IAG Group airlines and extend ramp and passenger services to external entities. Operating across all airports as a cohesive network, the company aims to achieve the necessary business volume at market prices. This approach ensures sustainable revenue and explores growth opportunities both domestically and internationally.

The company recognizes the pivotal role played by union representatives and the 8,000 Iberia handling workers in establishing a solid and viable future for airport services. This echoes their contributions a decade ago during Iberia’s successful Transformation Plan launch.

The successful negotiation and agreement underscore the commitment of Iberia and its unions to finding mutually beneficial solutions amid challenging circumstances. The collaborative approach not only addresses immediate concerns but also sets the stage for long-term sustainability and growth in the airline’s handling business. As Iberia positions itself for the future, the agreement reflects a strategic vision that balances the needs of the workforce, the company, and the broader industry landscape.

The establishment of a new handling company, backed by the majority ownership of Iberia, not only secures jobs and conditions for existing employees but also charts a course for expansion and competitiveness in the market. The commitment to workforce renewal and the creation of a Vocational Training Centre demonstrate a forward-looking approach to talent development and industry-specific skills, aligning with the dynamic nature of the aviation sector.

By ensuring a harmonious transition and addressing concerns proactively, Iberia positions itself as a responsible corporate entity that values its workforce and understands the evolving demands of the aviation industry. This collaborative success story stands as a testament to the resilience and adaptability of both the airline and its employees, setting the stage for a positive trajectory in the handling business’s future.