UK passengers flying to or from France on Friday, or travelling through French airspace, could face ‘significant’ disruption as French air traffic controllers walk out. France’s civil aviation authority, the GDAC, has asked airlines to reduce their operations by 50 per cent.
The strike will take place from 6am on Friday (September 16) and will last 24 hours, until 6am on Saturday. Passengers have been warned to expect cancellations and delays as a result of the industrial action. The GDAC told passengers: “If you can postpone your trip, do so, and contact your airline.”
The French union for air traffic controllers (SNCTA) stated that the strikes were taking place following six months of negotiations. It explained the reason behind the strikes was future staff shortages and rising inflation.
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In a statement, the SNCTA said: “From 2029 to 2035, more than 1,200 air traffic controllers will retire, which represents a third of the workforce - an unprecedented situation.” It added that action needs to be taken from 2023 to ensure staff will be fully trained in time.
It said: “Taking in these factors and the lack of planning from 2023, insufficient recruitment will not be sufficient to maintain an adequate level of public service.” The SNCTA also called for European regulations to be adhered to in order to offset inflation.
If a resolution cannot be reached, the union is planning a second strike from September 28 to Friday 30.
Air France has said that it plans to operate 90 per cent of its long-haul flights and 45 per cent of its short and medium-haul flights on Friday, but it warned that delays and last minute cancellations cannot be ruled out. The airline said it would contact those affected directly and they will be offered rebooking options at no cost or a full refund if they can no longer travel.
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