The union announced on 10 November it would go on strike over an impasse in the ongoing collective bargaining talks after the management cancelled the old collective agreement on pay and terms of work for the pilots.

The trade union demanded an increase in the wage bill for the pilots and an end to violation of worker rights as provided by legislation, collective bargaining agreements and employment contracts.

The management labelled the strike as unnecessary, pledging to try to find a solution with the union.

A strike would cause grave damage to the company, which is in the process of privatisation.

The shareholders were to decide on an EUR 8m capital increase on 23 November, but the meeting was cancelled at the proposal of the Slovenian Sovereign Holding (SSH). It has now be scheduled for December.

The idea was that the much needed recapitalisation would be provided by a potential buyer, but only if an agreement was reached with the owners and creditors on the write off of debt.

But then media have reported of a possible cash injection by the state, although such a move would probably not be compliant with the EU rules.

The state holds a 69.87% share in the flag carrier, which is managed by SSH. Additionally, the Bank Asset Management Company has 19.63%.

A 91.58% stake has been put on sale, with SSH and the bad bank reporting of multiple bidders in early October.