Vienna Airport workers face job uncertainty amid ground handling transition

Hundreds of employees at Vienna Airport are facing job uncertainty as ground handling services transition from Airline Assistance Switzerland (AAS) to a new provider, Joint Sky Services.

While Joint Sky Services had previously suggested it would take over the existing workforce, a legally binding agreement regarding the transfer of rights and years of service has not yet been established. Consequently, AAS has begun issuing dismissals to comply with legal deadlines. Some employees have reportedly received termination notices via mail or courier, including one instance where a worker was notified while on sick leave.

The GPA union is currently negotiating a social plan to protect jobs and ensure that workers do not receive inferior conditions under the new provider. The transition is scheduled to take place on October 25, 2026.