Strike by French Public Sector Workers to Disrupt Flights and Services on Thursday

French public sector workers, including air traffic controllers, will stage a walkout on Thursday, December 5, leading to widespread disruption, including flight cancellations at key airports and possible school closures.

The strike, which is part of a broader protest by unions, has been called to protest proposed changes to working conditions under the 2025 budget.

Air traffic controllers, employed by the state, are among the groups joining the strike. As a result, flight cancellations are expected at four of France’s busiest airports, including Paris Charles de Gaulle, Paris Orly, Marseille, and Toulouse.

The country’s civil aviation authority, the Direction générale de l’aviation civile (DGAC), has already ordered the following cancellations:

• 10% of flights at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport between 6 a.m. and 12 p.m.
• 25% of flights at Paris Orly Airport from 6 p.m. onward
• 50% of flights at Marseille Airport from 6 p.m.
• 20% of flights at Toulouse Airport for the entire day

The DGAC has also warned that delays and disruptions could affect flights throughout France, including those passing over the country. Despite these preventive measures, the DGAC cautioned that further delays are likely, advising passengers to consider postponing their journeys if possible.

Travelers are urged to check with their airlines before heading to the airport as it is up to the airlines to decide which flights to cancel. Long-haul flights are typically spared, but passengers should remain vigilant for any changes to their itineraries.

The strike action, which will last for just 24 hours, could have lasting effects on Friday’s travel as well, with some residual disruptions anticipated. In addition to air travel disruptions, other sectors of public services will be affected.

The strike is expected to cause significant interruptions in schools, with estimates suggesting that up to 65% of teachers may join the protest, leading to class and school closures.

The strike has been called by the intersyndicale, a collective of French unions, in response to proposed changes to the working conditions of public sector employees outlined in the 2025 national budget.

While the budget was scrapped earlier this week following the ousting of Prime Minister Michel Barnier in a no-confidence vote, unions have confirmed that they will proceed with their planned action.

French unions argue that the government’s proposed changes, which include reductions in public sector benefits and adjustments to pension schemes, will negatively impact workers’ rights and conditions. Despite the government’s recent political changes, the unions are determined to continue their protest.

Passengers flying from French airports and public sector workers alike face a challenging day on Thursday, with long-term political implications surrounding the strike still uncertain.

Those affected by cancellations or delays are urged to seek out their rights regarding compensation and flight adjustments as stipulated by European Union regulations.