Romania: air traffic controllers stage 2-hour strike over pay, management problems

Romanian air traffic controllers are staging a two-hour strike after talks broke down over pay, problems with management and the retirement age.

The strike will begin at 11 am and end at 1 pm (0800 GMT to 1000 GMT) on Wednesday. Some 40 flights will be affected by the walkout at Bucharest's Henri Coanda Airport.

Some flights have already been canceled.

The union that represents Romania's 1,500 air traffic controllers wants employees to be able to retire at 55, higher pay and a labor agreement that protects all employees.

Negotiations with Transportation Ministry official Dragos Titea broke down Monday.

One-third of flights will operate, according to aviation rules, and flights for senior government officials and the sick will also function.