French Air Traffic Controllers Strike - Advice and Information

Summary: Air traffic controllers are striking in France between 19 - 22 July, causing disruptions to flights in Paris. We provide advice for British nationals travelling in France during the strike.

How will flights in and out of France be affected?

All long-haul flights are scheduled to operate normally. However, the French civil aviation authority has requested that airlines cancel the following flights on Wednesday, 21 July:

• 20% of short- and medium-haul flights at Charles de Gaulle Airport
• 50% of short- and medium-haul flights at Orly Airport

What do I do if my flight is affected?

If you've already booked your flight in or out of France, we recommend that you contact your airline directly for altered flight schedules and further details.

As a British national, you may also contact or visit the British Embassy in Paris for assistance.

When can I expect things to return to normal?

The strike is expected to last until 0700 (CET) on Thursday, 22 July.

How did the air traffic controllers strike come about?

Unions of French air traffic controllers are opposing a plan to unify European airspace, which is set to take effect in 2012. They fear that these changes will lead to job cuts as France's air traffic control services merge with other European services.