France experienced a second day of disruption in air travel as air traffic controllers remained on strike, leading to a nationwide web of delays and cancellations. The strike, which started earlier this week, intensified on Day 2 with the Paris airports — Charles de Gaulle and Orly — being hit even harder compared to the first day.
The airline industry has been compelled to ground as much as 40% of flights after a walkout by unions protesting for improved work conditions, staffing, and updated machinery. Travelers have described terminals as chaotic with thousands stranded and enduring prolonged delays during the peak summer holiday period.
Regulators have threatened travellers with more disturbances as talks stall. Low-cost carriers such as Ryanair and EasyJet have implored the EU regulators to step in, arguing that the French strikes adversely impact the entire continent’s airspace because France has central flight routes.
Despite mounting pressure, union representatives have remained firm, stating that the strike is necessary to ensure long-term safety and efficiency in French aviation. Travelers are advised to check with airlines for updates and explore alternative travel routes.
