Norway train drivers strike over wages and AI scheduling

Train drivers in Norway have launched a strike following the collapse of negotiations between the Norwegian Locomotive Drivers' Union (NLF) and the employer organization Spekter. The conflict is driven by the upcoming merger of Vy and Flytoget, which has highlighted significant wage disparities. NLF members at Vy currently earn approximately 88,000 NOK less annually on average than their counterparts at Flytoget.

In addition to wage equalization, the union is protesting proposed changes to work schedules. Vy intends to replace the current system, where drivers can request long-term rosters tailored to family and health needs, with an artificial intelligence-based system for scheduling routes and shifts. Drivers argue that this could lead to increased work pressure and a loss of personal autonomy over their working lives.