France: Flight disruptions due to air traffic controller strike May 22 /update 3

Event

A public sector strike involving air traffic controllers is taking place on Tuesday, May 22. Civil aviation authorities (DGAC) have asked airlines to reduce their flight schedules by 20 percent, notably at Paris-Orly (ORY), Lyon (LYS), and Marseille (MRS) international airports. Short- and medium-haul flights will likely be the most affected. Delays and cancelations are also to be anticipated at other airports throughout the country, including last-minute disruptions. Flights crossing French airspace, notably to and from Spain, are also affected. Residual disruptions are also possible on Wednesday. Other transportation disruptions, e.g. affecting rail and public transit services, are also expected.

Associated protests with the potential to result in traffic disruptions have been planned - notably in the capital Paris, where crowds will gather at 14:00 (local time) at Place d'Italie. Heightened security measures and localized traffic disruptions are expected near protest sites.

Context

This industrial action follows two associated public sector strikes that took place on April 19 and March 22 in protest of new reforms introduced by President Emmanuel Macron's government, and amid a series of ongoing strikes affecting the SNCF (France's national rail operator) and Air France.

The government plans to abolish 120,000 civil servant jobs over a five-year period as part of its "Public Action 2022" plan, along with reforms such as an increased use of contractors and a merit pay system.

Advice

Individuals in France are advised to confirm the status of their flights prior to departure to the airport, allow for extra time to reach their destinations, and avoid protests as a precaution.