French Air Traffic Controllers Announce Record Strike Despite Ongoing Negotiations

The National Union of Air Traffic Controllers (SNCTA) has announced that it will proceed with a record mobilization of staff on April 25, despite ongoing negotiations with the General Directorate of Civil Aviation (DGAC). The strike is a protest against the air traffic control overhaul project proposed by the administration, which seeks to reorganize air traffic control in France. The SNCTA is demanding salary increases and more hiring opportunities in exchange for their cooperation.

The DGAC has emphasized that discussions are still possible until Tuesday noon, when controllers must declare themselves strikers. If a strike occurs, airlines are being asked to reduce their flight programs to match available personnel and planned aircraft movements. This could result in significant disruptions and delays at airports, affecting more than 70% of flights in certain areas.

The strike is particularly challenging as it takes place during ongoing spring school holidays in some regions, potentially causing significant inconvenience for travelers. The SNCTA has expressed its concern about the impact of the strike on passengers and has called on airlines to communicate effectively with air traffic controllers and passengers to minimize disruptions.

In summary, negotiations between the SNCTA and the DGAC have failed, resulting in a decision to proceed with a strike by French air traffic controllers on April 25. The strike is aimed at protesting against an air traffic control overhaul project proposed by the administration, while also requesting salary increases and more hiring opportunities from the government. Airlines are being asked to reduce their flight programs in preparation for potential disruptions caused by the strike.