Icelandair technicians call for indefinite strike

Icelandair aircraft technicians have called for an indefinite strike starting September 23, 2026, following a union vote where 88.3 percent of members supported the industrial action. The decision by the Icelandic Aircraft Technicians Association (FVFI) follows prolonged and unsuccessful negotiations regarding wage structures and compensation.

The dispute stems from disagreements over salary adjustments intended to address the rising cost of living and pay parity within the aviation sector. While Icelandair management claims to have offered fair and responsible increases consistent with the general market, the union argues that current compensation does not reflect the technical responsibilities or industry standards.

Negotiations, which began in November 2025, were referred to a state mediator in February 2026, but direct communication between the parties broke down in June 2026. Icelandair has warned that the strike will cause significant disruptions to international flight schedules, though the total financial impact remains uncertain. The company has proposed using an independent arbitrator to resolve the wage impasse.