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Flights cancelled due to French national strike

A France-wide public service strike is taking place tomorrow and is expected to cause disruption to flights, public transport and schools.

It begins tonight (Wednesday May 8) at 7pm and is announced to last until Friday May 9 6am.

French air traffic controllers are involved. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation has asked companies to reduce the number of flights by 30%, notably in Paris Orly, Toulouse, Lyon and Marseille. Other airports could be affected.

Travellers are advised to check directly with their airline before travelling to the airport.

Air France has announced that its long distance flights will not be affected, and that 73% of other flights will operate. However the company has warned that there could be “last minute delays or cancellations”.

Incoming flights are also affected. Ryanair and easyJet have notably cancelled some flights.

The strike is a protest at a new planned law to “transform public service” in France. The CFDT Union has asked all the fonctionnaires to protest for their rights, for better work conditions, higher salaries, and against job cuts.

Teachers are set to follow the movement and schools and canteens will be affected, as well as public transport (buses…). 

The SNCF is not concerned by the movement and trains should not be affected.

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