French Air Traffic Controllers Announce Strike Over Unfair Compensation and Work Overhaul

The National Union of Air Traffic Controllers (SNCTA) has announced that a “record mobilization” of staff is expected on April 25, resulting in numerous flight cancellations. This follows the failure of negotiations with the General Directorate of Civil Aviation (DGAC) over an air traffic control overhaul project presented by the administration. The SNCTA is protesting against the project, which aims to reorganize air traffic control in France, including territorial coverage of air navigation services and controller work to accommodate increased air traffic. In return, controllers are demanding salary increases and more hiring opportunities.

The DGAC emphasized that discussions are still possible until Tuesday noon, the deadline for declaring oneself a striker. If a controller strike occurs, airlines will be asked to reduce their flight programs to match available personnel and planned aircraft movements. This could result in significant disruptions and delays at airports, potentially affecting more than 70% of flights in certain areas.

The strike takes place during ongoing spring school holidays in some regions, adding to its potential impact on travelers. The DGAC typically releases forecasts the day before strike days outlining necessary flight reductions for airlines to make. Effective communication between airlines, air traffic controllers, and passengers is crucial to minimize disruptions during this period of strike action.

The SNCTA has stated that it regrets any inconvenience caused by the strike but believes it is necessary to defend the rights of its members. The union has been fighting for better working conditions and compensation for several years now, and this strike is seen as a last resort after failed negotiations with the government.

The failure of negotiations with the government has led to frustration among air traffic controllers who feel undervalued and underpaid for their hard work. They believe that their demands are reasonable and should be considered by the authorities.

In conclusion, negotiations have failed to prevent a strike by French air traffic controllers on Thursday. The SNCTA announced that it expects a record mobilization of staff on April 25, which will result in numerous flight cancellations due to increased air traffic control reorganization project presented by the administration. Airlines are being asked to reduce their flight programs to match available personnel and planned aircraft movements if a controller strike occurs. The SNCTA regrets any inconvenience caused but believes it is necessary to defend its members’ rights after failed negotiations with the government.