France Strikes Again: What Travellers Need to Know About July Flight Disruptions

If you're flying in or over France this week, your summer getaway might be in for some turbulence, and not the kind caused by weather.

French air traffic controllers have announced planned strike action for July 3 and 4, just as the summer travel rush begins. The walkouts could lead to widespread flight delays and cancellations, not only across France but also for flights that use French airspace.

The strike has been called by UNSA-ICNA, France’s second-largest air traffic controller union, who accuse management of creating a “toxic” work environment and ignoring calls for better pay and more staff. Another union, USAC-CGT, has also joined in with a strike notice for 3 July.

Although the largest union, SNCTA, hasn’t backed the walkout, the strikes are still expected to cause serious disruption.

The timing couldn’t be worse. The strikes fall right before French schools break up for the summer, with 4 and 5 July being among the busiest travel days of the year.

How It Will Affect Your Trip

Here’s how your trip could be affected:

• Flight cancellations: The French Civil Aviation Authority (DGAC) will soon announce how many flights must be grounded. Airlines will then decide which routes to cancel, so keep an eye on your inbox if you’re flying in, out, or over France.
• Long delays: Even if your flight isn’t cancelled, it could face delays as fewer controllers are available to manage air traffic.
• Rerouted flights: Planes that normally fly over France might have to take longer, alternative routes. This could lead to delays even if you're flying between other countries, like Spain, Portugal, Belgium or Morocco.
  

In past strikes, millions of travellers were affected, with thousands of flights disrupted. And while a recent French law now requires striking air traffic controllers to give 48 hours’ notice — to help minimise the chaos — it may not be enough to keep everything running smoothly.

Even with rules requiring a minimum level of service, authorities say up to 20% of flights could be cancelled, potentially affecting tens of thousands of passengers across Europe.

What Are Your Rights if Your Flight is Cancelled or Delayed?

Under EU Regulation EC 261/2004, air traffic control strikes are classified as “extraordinary circumstances.” While you may not qualify for automatic compensation, airlines are still required to take care of you.

If your flight is canceled and no suitable alternative is offered, you’re entitled to your money back. You can also choose a rebooking on the next available flight, or a later one that suits you.
If you're stuck at the airport, the airline must provide meals, refreshments, hotel accommodation (if needed), and transport to and from the hotel.
Keep all your receipts! You can claim back reasonable costs like food, transport, and overnight stays.

Tips When Travelling

If you're due to travel around 3–4 July:

• Check your flight status regularly. Airlines should inform you of cancellations or major delays.
• Be flexible. If possible, consider adjusting your travel dates or routing through airports outside of France.
• Arrive early. Even if your flight is on time, airport operations could be slower due to knock-on effects.
  

Travellers are advised to stay alert and plan ahead.

Do you have plans to visit France in the coming days? Talk to us in the comment section below. Or if you need more advice on the above, contact us for further travel & immigration advice.

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Charlie

Travel and Immigration Writer and Client Relationship Manager at IaM (Immigration and Migration)

Charlie is IaM’s resident Travel & Immigration Writer and Client Relationship Manager. They craft clear, engaging guides that demystify complex visa and migration rules - and then personally supports each client through every step of their journey.

Over the past 6+ years, with IaM, and working in the travel and immigration sector, Charlie has authored 200+ in-depth guides on Schengen, UK visas & other destinations they have relocated 1,000+ families safely through the system. A Clockwork Practitioner, Charlie also works hard to streamline operations and adheres to the mantra "Task Clients Well".

When they’re not translating policy into plain English, you’ll find them scouting new destinations, collecting local stories, and mastering a new language to better serve our global community.

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