France: Aviation workers extend nationwide strike warning through at least June 29 /update 2

Sporadic air travel disruptions are possible at airports in France through late June after unionized aviation workers, including air traffic controllers (ATC) affiliated with the Directorate General for Civil Aviation (DGAC), extended their existing series of strike warnings until June 29. Labor leaders issued an initial warning of potential work stoppages during the May 31-June 7 time frame, subsequently extending the advisory through June 15 and again through June 22. However, only one disruptive walkout has taken place: on June 4, ATC personnel walked out at Toulouse-Blagnac Airport (TLS), disrupting at least 23 percent of flights. The stated purpose of the action is to denounce a perceived deterioration in public services and differentiated treatment of ATC personnel based on rank. As of June 18, organizers have not announced specific plans for dates and locations of walkouts.

Any walkouts will likely occur with little or no warning, resulting in scattered air travel disruptions. Picket protests are possible at airports; heightened security and localized transport disruptions are likely near any demonstrations that may materialize.