A French air traffic control strike could halt UK holidaymakers in their tracks this weekend, as flights face hefty delays and possible cancellations.
France's aviation authority, the DGAC, has warned flyers of "severe disruption", and have asked airlines to halve their schedules ahead of the strike, reports EuroNews. In a statement, the DGAC said: "Flight cancellations and significant delays are to be expected.
“Passengers who can are invited to postpone their trips.”
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The industrial action is set to take place from 6am on Friday, September 16 until 6am on Saturday, September 17. This walkout could also disrupt European flights that pass over French airspace.
So, which airlines have been affected? Read on below for more information.
Which airlines have cancelled or delayed flights due to the strike?
Air France has cancelled over half (55 percent) of its short and medium-haul flights. They also cancelled 10 per cent of their long-haul flights scheduled for tomorrow.
Easyjet, Transavia, Ryanair and Volotea are also bracing themselves for possible delays and cancellations. Alongside Air France, these airlines will operate only 64 percent of flights scheduled to depart from France on Friday.
In a statement, Easyjet said: "We’ve been advised that there will be an Air Traffic Control strike taking place in France on Friday 16 September. Like all airlines operating to/from French airports easyJet expects some disruptions to its flying program and has been requested by the DGAC – French CAA – to proceed to cancellations.
"If your flight is cancelled, we will notify you by SMS and email, and you will be given the option to change your flight for free, receive a voucher or a refund. All these options will be available through Manage Bookings
"If you are due to travel to or from France on the 16 September please check the status of your flight on Flight Tracker, which is available online or through the easyJet app. Although this is outside of our control, we’d like to apologise for any disruption to your travel plans as a result of this strike action and thank you for your understanding. "
Brussels Airlines have cancelled two flights on Thursday evening and ten flights on Friday.
Why are the French air traffic control staff striking?
The French Syndicat National des Contrôleurs du Trafic Aérien (SNCTA) union is the country's main union for traffic controllers. They called the industrial action over pay and working conditions.
In a statement, the SNCTA said: "Between 2029 and 2035, one third of the [air traffic control] workforce is retiring. It is imperative that we anticipate and plan recruitment.
“If not, the consequences will be inevitable in terms of the public service, working conditions and flexibility.”
How will I know if my flight is cancelled?
If your flight has been cancelled, your airline will contact you individually regarding this, if you are flying with Easyjet or Air France. An Air France spokesperson said: "The company regrets this action, which will have significant consequences for customers."
The DGAC has advised passengers on other airlines to reach out to their carrier for more information. If your flight is cancelled, you are likely entitled to a full refund or a seat on another flight.
Those flying over France may or may not be impacted by the strike - the DGAC is collaborating with Eurocontrol to help airlines avoid French airspace. If an agreement is not reached after Friday, the Union plans a second strike for September 28-30.
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