Skies of Discontent: French Air Traffic Controllers Strike

French air traffic controllers embarked on a two-day strike on Thursday, demanding improved working conditions, which in turn disrupted air travel at the commencement of the summer season. The civil aviation authority, DGAC, instructed airlines to reduce flights in and out of France, impacting Paris' Roissy Charles de Gaulle airport, among Europe's busiest transit hubs.

Air France, the country's largest airline, reported a schedule adjustment without detail, ensuring the continuation of long-haul flights. Meanwhile, Ryanair announced the cancellation of 170 flights, affecting over 30,000 passengers, due to the industrial action. The disruptions extended to all French overflights, causing broader implications for regional air travel.

The air traffic controllers' union, UNSA-ICNA, cited issues of understaffing, outdated equipment, and a toxic management culture as reasons for the strike. The DGAC's appeals for airlines to cut flights illustrated operational strains, with significant disturbances expected across all French airports. Passengers were advised to amend travel plans wherever possible as airlines braced for potential knock-on effects.

(With inputs from agencies.)