Workers criticize workload and safety issues

Domestic ground handlers at Air Tahiti are raising concerns about increasing workloads, lack of recognition, and safety and security challenges. They claim that young workers on the tarmac receive minimal training, which they believe puts both employees and passengers at risk.

Flight cancellations and re-routing efforts

Air Tahiti reported that 70 out of 197 scheduled flights have been canceled since the start of the social movement last Thursday. The company claims it has ensured all scheduled school charter flights, allowing 820 affected students to return to their families, but 7 percent of passengers are still waiting for a re-routing solution.

Striking workers demand bonuses

The striking workers are demanding the allocation of the towing bonus and the aircraft operation bonus, which they say have been requested for years without results. They argue that while management claims these tasks are part of their "functions and were included in our salary," these bonuses are available in other professions and not granted to them.

Workload and training concerns

The workers say they were already overburdened before the strike, particularly with the introduction of a new aircraft configured 100% first class. They claim their salaries have not increased, not even by 100 francs, and that management forced them to handle aircraft until an incident occurred, which led to the current strike.

Safety and psychological strain

Ground handlers emphasize the importance of safety checks before flights, stating they prefer to check everything at the slightest doubt, even if it means immobilizing the aircraft on the ground. They also mention the psychological strain of their work, noting that "every day, you have 85 decibels in your ears, even the headset is not enough."

Recognition and criticism from authorities

A representative from the General Directorate of Civil Aviation of the State praised the ground handlers for their work on safety and security, noting that they manage these aspects at a high level. However, the handlers say they are "the forgotten ones" and have requested recognition and compensation for their efforts.

Training and management issues

The workers express concerns about safety and security due to young workers receiving only a week of training before being placed on the tarmac. They also criticize the company for not consulting staff on their needs and for decisions being made by non-technical personnel. Some handlers note that some colleagues are training young workers despite not being certified, and that the bonus for training has been abolished, leading to a lack of motivation among supervisors.