Is the Paris airport workers strike on June 18 going ahead?
Uncertainty remains, passengers advised to check for updates
The union’s leaflet (input) protesting the security badge rules
Unions leaflet and Teal Sun/ Shutterstock
Ground staff at three Paris three airports - Charles de Gaulle, Orly and business airport Le Bourget - have been called to strike on June 18 by an inter-union group representing airport employees.
The unions, including the CGT, CFDT, UNSA and Sud Aérien, say they are protesting what they describe as stricter rules for obtaining and renewing security clearances required to work in restricted airport areas.
According to the union representatives, airport staff can now be refused clearance, or lose it, because of minor offences or legal cases / information recorded in the national criminal records database (TAJ), even if it did not result in a conviction.
Loss of clearance can lead to dismissal because workers are unable to access secure zones such as runways and baggage-handling areas.
In a leaflet calling for the strike, the unions explain that the loss of a badge can prevent employees from carrying out their jobs. “The badge is not just an authorisation to move around, it is a permit to work,” the leaflet states.
Uncertainty over participation
In France, strikes are normally announced in advance through a formal strike notice (préavis de grève) issued by representative unions in sectors such as aviation. However, a public call does not by itself determine whether industrial action will take place at full scale, nor how many employees will ultimately take part.
Even when a strike is announced, participation is decided individually by workers, and in some airport-related roles subject to minimum service rules, staff may only confirm their intention to strike shortly before the action.
As a result, airport operators and airlines often cannot accurately assess operational impact until very close to the date.
For now, the impact of the planned strike remains uncertain and will depend on how many employees join the action.
No flight reduction measures have been announced at this stage by the French Civil Aviation Authority. Air traffic controllers are not involved in any action.
However, passengers should be aware that delays or cancellations caused by airport staff strikes are generally considered outside the airline’s control and as a result, compensation is not usually given. Airlines do remain responsible for providing re-booking and accommodation options where necessary.
Tips for passengers travelling through Paris on June 18
Passengers are advised to check their flight status and check for updates with their airline and allow extra time at the airport in case of delays affecting security screening or baggage handling.
Those with flexible tickets may wish to consider changing travel dates, depending on how the situation develops. Travellers with tight connections may want to contact their airline in advance about rebooking options.
Access to the airports may also be affected by a demonstration at Roissy, so road users are advised to check traffic conditions before departure.
Finally, passengers requiring assistance are advised to confirm arrangements with their airline ahead of travel.
