The main French air traffic control union, the SNCTA, has announced a strike from the morning of 7 October until the morning of 10 October 2025. The walkout is expected to cause widespread cancellations and delays for flights across western Europe, including those from the UK.
The union cites grievances over management practices and pay eroded by inflation, noting that controllers' wages are funded by airlines and ultimately passengers. The strike, originally planned for September, was postponed after the collapse of the previous French government.
Under French rules, controllers will declare their availability two days in advance, with the civil aviation authority DGAC then determining the level of service and required cancellations. Airlines typically delay cancellations until the last moment to minimise lost revenue.
A similar strike in July 2025 by smaller unions led to nearly 3,000 flight cancellations, affecting up to 50,000 passengers. One in nine flights that operated was delayed by an average of 41 minutes, costing the aviation industry €120 million.
Flights overflying France, such as those from UK airports to Mediterranean destinations, are particularly vulnerable. Spanish airports like Palma de Mallorca and Barcelona were worst hit in July. Delays can also cascade across adjacent airspace.
Under EU air passenger rights, airlines that cancel flights must rebook passengers on alternative carriers and provide accommodation and meals if needed, regardless of the strike cause.
