Lufthansa expects to operate more than half of its scheduled flights on Thursday and Friday despite a planned strike by the pilot union Vereinigung Cockpit. The union announced the strike action targeting Lufthansa Classic, the group's cargo carrier, and Lufthansa CityLine amid a dispute over changes to pension provisions. This disruption comes as the airline attempts to maintain operations during the industrial action.

The strike highlights ongoing tensions between Lufthansa and its pilots over retirement benefits. Vereinigung Cockpit has called for industrial action at key Lufthansa operations, including the cargo division and CityLine, which serves as a hub carrier. The pension dispute represents a significant point of contention that has led to this latest round of strikes, disrupting travel plans for thousands of passengers.

Lufthansa's ability to maintain over half its flight schedule during the strike demonstrates the airline's contingency planning for industrial action. The carrier has likely implemented measures to minimize disruption, though passengers should expect some level of service impact. This strike action underscores the challenges airlines face in balancing operational needs with employee demands for pension security.