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French air traffic control strike forces ‘significant’ cancellations and delays

The two main airports in Paris will see most flights cancelled tomorrow (Thursday) due to a strike by French air traffic controllers.

The one-day action is likely to see up to three quarters of flights grounded at Paris Orly and 65% at Paris Charles de Gaulle.

Unions called the strike after a breakdown of negotiations on salary increases and other measures in a planned overhaul of France’s air traffic control system.  

Air France warned that “significant cancellations and delays” were expected at all French airports.

The airline said: “Our flight schedule will be updated later today. Customers impacted by cancelled flights are being notified individually, by SMS, e-mail or via the Air France app.

“Commercial measures are in place, allowing customers to anticipate or postpone their trip free of charge. 

“Customers whose flights are cancelled can change their travel plans free of charge, or request a credit note or a full refund in case they are unable to travel.

“Air France regrets this situation and would like to point out that this strike in no way concerns Air France or its staff.”

Residual disruption is likely following the strike as the backlog of disrupted flights is cleared.

Air traffic control staff have also threatened to carry out a three-day strike on May 9-11 if a new working agreement is not finalised.

The industrial action raises concerns over potential travel disruption during the summer Olympic Games in the French capital

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