Nearly a thousand flights are projected to be canceled this Friday in France due to a strike by air traffic controllers, according to calculations released by the Directorate of Civil Aviation (DGAC). The disruption showcases how labor actions within critical aviation operations can ripple across international networks, affecting travelers and carriers alike.
Leading up to the strike, the National Association of Air Traffic Controllers (SNTAC) had pressed for wage increases to offset inflation and called for additional staffing. In response, DGAC requested airlines to curb their schedules by about 50 percent for the day. This reduction is intended to manage safety and flow control under constrained staffing, reflecting a careful balance between maintaining service levels and preserving airspace safety during peak demand periods.
When questioned about potential cancellations of other international routes that traverse French airspace, sources within the French regulator indicated to Efe that DGAC would exercise control over the upper flight levels of transit aircraft crossing the French skies. The goal is to coordinate with European airspace managers to coordinate routes and minimize disruption while avoiding unnecessary overflights in already congested corridors.
The agency noted that, in past instances of stopovers or route modifications through France, some airlines have still faced cancellations for aircraft that neither originate nor terminate their flights in France. This underscores the vulnerability of global networks to localized disruptions and the cascading impact on schedules and connectivity for travelers and freight alike.
Air France, the flag carrier, indicated it plans to operate about 90 percent of its long-haul intercontinental services and around 45 percent of its short- and medium-haul flights, including services within France and those connecting to other European cities or Mediterranean destinations. The airline also acknowledged the likelihood of delays and suggested travelers consulting schedules before departure and remaining flexible with plans where possible.
Air France advised customers planning travel on Friday to consider postponing trips if feasible. For those who choose to cancel, the carrier offers changes to travel dates at no extra charge or the option to receive a full refund if the ticket is refunded, reflecting policies designed to mitigate the burden on passengers during periods of operational strain. This approach aims to preserve customer options while the system works through the staffing and coordination challenges posed by the strike.