French ATC Strikes Set to Disrupt July 3 and 4 Flights
Airlines across Europe are bracing for widespread disruptions as French air traffic controllers prepare to strike on July 3, 2025. The French civil aviation authority DGAC has instructed carriers to cut flight schedules by up to 50% at several airports, with further industrial action likely to impact travel through July 4.
The DGAC has requested that airlines reduce their operations by 25% at Paris airports, including Paris-Charles de Gaulle (CDG) and Paris-Orly (ORY), and has advised passengers to confirm travel arrangements with their airlines. The directive also includes even steeper reductions at other French airports. Flights at Nice, Bastia, and Calvi are to be cut by 50%, while Lyon, Marseille, Montpellier, Ajaccio, and Figari will see a 30% reduction in traffic.
On July 2, Royal Air Maroc confirmed it would be among the carriers affected, stating that some of its scheduled flights to and from France would be disrupted. The airline assured passengers that it is working to minimize the inconvenience caused by the strike.
Airport officials at CDG and ORY have also issued alerts to travelers, warning of expected cancellations and delays due to the industrial action. They are urging all passengers to check flight statuses directly with their airlines before heading to the airport.
The strikes, organized by French air traffic control unions, stem from dissatisfaction with workload demands and record levels of air traffic. The ICNA union emphasized that controllers want their concerns addressed as traffic volumes continue to rise.
While both July 3 and 4 are expected to be affected, only one of the two unions has confirmed plans to extend strike action into the second day. The extent of disruption on July 4 will depend on how many controllers participate.
The UK Foreign Office has also issued a travel advisory warning citizens about possible flight delays and cancellations in France. In an update posted on July 2, the agency stated, “On 3 and 4 July, planned industrial action by air traffic control unions is expected to disrupt flights to and from airports across France. Check your operator’s advice before travelling, including where you are taking connecting flights.”
Travelers planning to transit through France or fly into affected airports are urged to monitor airline updates and consider alternate travel options if necessary. As peak summer travel picks up across Europe, the impact of the strike could extend beyond France’s borders, potentially affecting international connections and airline schedules.
Related News: https://airguide.info/category/air-travel-business/airline-finance/