Tens of thousands of British vacationers are set to face disruptions due to upcoming strikes by French air traffic control (ATC) next week. France is gearing up for a significant aviation labor action, with UK travelers expected to experience significant consequences. The SNCTA union, representing 80% of French controllers, will hold a 24-hour strike on September 18 in opposition to government budget reductions and stalled salary negotiations.
The strike will halt a substantial portion of French airspace operations, affecting up to 1,500 flights, including close to 200 flights to and from the UK. The situation could worsen further, as the recent political upheaval following the removal of Prime Minister Michel Barnier raises the specter of a nationwide general strike.
AirAdvisor experts have identified the routes most likely to be impacted based on the UK-France flight traffic. These routes include:
– Paris Charles de Gaulle: Receiving around 80 to 100 daily flights from the UK.
– Nice Côte d’Azur: Receiving approximately 30–40 daily flights from the UK.
– Marseille Provence: Receiving about 20–30 daily flights from the UK.
Considering past French ATC strikes, AirAdvisor anticipates a disruption rate of 50%, affecting nearly 200 UK flights and impacting 36,000 passengers. The strike’s ripple effects may divert up to 400 flights to alternative airports, leading to a 5–10% increase in congestion for up to 12 hours. Amsterdam, Frankfurt, Brussels, and Geneva are likely to experience the most significant disruptions.
Unfortunately, affected passengers may not be eligible for compensation as ATC strikes fall under ‘extraordinary circumstances’ per EU/UK 261 regulations. However, airlines are obligated to provide free care in the form of meals, accommodation, and transportation.
Travelers are advised to subscribe to flight alerts and airline apps for real-time updates on delays and cancellations. In the event of being stranded overnight, passengers should insist on receiving hotel and food vouchers, as airlines are mandated by EU law to provide these, irrespective of ‘extraordinary circumstances’. Keeping thorough documentation for potential reimbursement from airlines or travel insurance is recommended. Additionally, tagging luggage with ‘fragile’ labels can aid in prioritizing baggage handling during disruptions, minimizing the risk of lost or delayed belongings.
Anton Radchenko, the founder of AirAdvisor, expressed concerns regarding the strike’s aftermath, emphasizing the likelihood of extended disruptions beyond the strike day. Travelers are advised to consider early morning flights, maintain alternative travel options, and meticulously document all travel-related information to facilitate potential claims for compensation or assistance.
Looking ahead, the strike is expected to prompt airlines to enhance partnerships with non-French hubs, potentially reshaping connectivity for UK passengers heading to southern Europe. Travelers are encouraged to take a proactive approach to mitigate stress and avoid unnecessary expenses during such disruptions.
