The Latam Pilots' Union (SPL) announced on Tuesday that it will advance the strike starting at midnight, accusing management of prematurely closing mediation with the Labor Directorate. Latam, in turn, canceled some flights for November 12 and 13 and reaffirmed its willingness to dialogue. The action affects less than 10% of passengers originating or destined for Chile.
The announcement by the Latam Pilots' Union (SPL) follows the rejection on November 3 of the airline's latest offer, deemed insufficient for not differing substantially from the mid-year initial proposal. Mediation with the Labor Directorate (DT) was set to run until November 18, but Latam management decided to close it prematurely, with five days of possible talks remaining.
"The Latam management decided to prematurely close the legal mediation process being carried out by the Labor Directorate (DT) —which had five days of conversations left if there had been willingness from both parties— forcing the early paralysis of operations", the union accused.
Mario Troncoso, SPL president, stated: “It is inexplicable to us that the company's management, as we said on October 16, has led us by the hand to a strike that we have always considered avoidable if the profits obtained by the company and the moderation of labor demands are compared”. He added that Latam did not show figures for its proposal, refused to restore conditions cut in 2020, transferred flights to subsidiaries —seen as strike replacement— and now refuses to continue talking.
Latam responded in a statement: “reaffirms its permanent willingness to dialogue with the union and its commitment to reach an agreement beneficial for all parties”. To mitigate the impact, the airline canceled flights affecting less than 10% of passengers in Chile, offering rescheduling within one day or refunds. Paulo Miranda, vice president of clients, said: “Following our commitment to all passengers with scheduled flights on these dates and with the purpose of providing them tranquility and the necessary support, we have implemented measures to reduce the number of affected people and offer them the best possible alternative”.
From November 14, Latam will notify additional adjustments by email, expecting no further flight impacts from the strike.