TAAG technicians weigh strike suspension over wage dispute

Aircraft maintenance technicians at TAAG are negotiating a significant wage increase, with the Sindicato dos Técnicos de Manutenção de Aeronaves (STMA) initially demanding a 100% raise. In response, TAAG has proposed a 20% increase, arguing that a larger hike would compromise the company’s financial sustainability and violate principles of proportionality across professional categories.

The dispute involves 146 technicians, representing approximately 5% of the airline's 2,750 employees. Beyond wages, workers have raised concerns regarding working conditions, specifically the lack of hangars at Dr. António Agostinho Neto International Airport, which has forced some to work in adapted containers or outdoors.

While a strike was threatened for the coming week, STMA President Joaquim Filipe Martins is considering suspending the industrial action to evaluate the 20% offer. TAAG management, led by Board Chairman Clóvis Rosa, has stated they are prepared to maintain at least 85% of flight schedules through minimum services and operational partnerships should a strike occur, ensuring intercontinental connections remain intact.