Air travelers planning to fly to, from, or through France on Thursday, April 25, should brace themselves for major disruptions as air traffic controllers in the country have announced a strike. The walkout is expected to impact up to 70% of flights at major French airports, including those that merely pass through French airspace.
The strike, which is being organized by the SNCTA union, which represents over 60% of France’s air traffic controllers, is part of a broader dispute over pay and working conditions. Unions are demanding salary increases and additional staff, arguing that the restructuring of air navigation services will lead to increased workloads and stress.
The French civil aviation authority has stated that it will use the final number of participating air traffic controllers to determine how many flights will be grounded. The strike is expected to last for 24 hours, but the unions have not ruled out extending it if their demands are not met.
Passengers are advised to check with their airlines for the latest flight information and to consider alternative travel arrangements, if possible. They should also expect long delays and potential cancellations, even if their flights are not directly affected by the strike.
The strike highlights the ongoing tensions in the aviation sector, which is facing a shortage of qualified workers and increasing pressure to reduce costs. Unions argue that the restructuring of air navigation services will lead to a deterioration of working conditions and a decrease in safety. The French government has expressed its disappointment over the strike and has urged the unions to reconsider their action.
