The ETF stands in full solidarity with our colleagues from the United Transport Workers’ Union (BTS), representing workers across the transport sector in Türkiye, including civil aviation and air traffic management staff. Following months of unresolved concerns and a continued lack of meaningful dialogue, BTS has announced industrial action for Wednesday, 18 February 2026.
Background: concerns over aviation compensation and transparency
At the centre of the dispute is the compensation system within the General Directorate of State Airports Authority (DHMİ), a public institution operating under the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure. BTS has been raising concerns about the existing remuneration framework, particularly the distribution of so-called Aviation Compensation linked to EUROCONTROL route charges.
Türkiye joined EUROCONTROL on 1 March 1989 and is one of 41 member states participating in the European air navigation system. The revenues collected through route charges are intended to support air traffic services and the workforce that delivers them. However, BTS argues that the current national implementation lacks transparency and applies arbitrary categorisation criteria that directly affect pay levels and workplace harmony.
However, despite repeated attempts by the union to engage in dialogue with management and seek fair solutions, BTS’ communications have gone without meaningful progress, and the recent regulatory changes have only worsened existing inequalities.
Why BTS members are taking industrial action
After consultation with members and non-member civil aviation employees, the BTS executive committee concluded that industrial action is necessary to increase pressure on public authorities and push for a constructive, transparent social dialogue process.
The strike planned for 18 February 2026 reflects broader concerns about:
- the absence of a structured and transparent platform for discussing remuneration;
- persistent wage disparities among employees;
- unclear criteria guiding compensation decisions;
- growing tensions affecting workplace cohesion and morale.
ETF Calls for Meaningful Social Dialogue
In response to the situation and to support BTS, ETF has sent letters to the Turkish Minister of Transport and Infrastructure and to the Director General of DHMİ, urging them to ensure that principles of transparent and meaningful social dialogue are respected, in line with the International Labour Organization (ILO) conventions.
Respect for collective bargaining and open dialogue remains essential in public services, particularly in critical sectors such as aviation where cooperation and trust among staff are fundamental to safe and efficient operations.
The upcoming strike highlights the importance of clear and equitable compensation systems and genuine dialogue between workers, unions, and employers. ETF stands firmly alongside BTS and all Turkish ATM workers in their effort to secure fair treatment and transparent working conditions.
We stand in solidarity with Turkish ATM workers!
