Finnair said on Friday its pilots had threatened to ground flights on five days in February to strengthen their demands in pay talks with the company.

Finnair said the pilots union has initiated an overtime ban, which could lead to cancellations of flights as soon as January 24.

"In addition, the pilots have given notification of their intention to carry out strikes that will halt Finnair flights almost completely," Finnair said, adding the strikes were scheduled for February 11, 13, 16, 18 and 20.