Air France Strikes Expected to Cancel Flights
Joe Cortez June 10, 2016
Airline says up to 25 percent of flights could be affected.
Flyers leaving France this weekend may be forced to extend their trip for at least one more day, as another round of pilot strikes are forcing the cancellation of up to 25 percent of all flights through Tuesday, June 14. In a statement, the airline warns flyers to anticipate cancellations and prepare to have their trips delayed.
“For June 11, we plan to operate more than 90% of our long haul flights, 90% of our domestic flights, and around 75% of our medium-haul flight to and from [Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG)],” the statement reads. “Last minute disturbances are not excluded.”
According to Air Transport World, the strikes are being organized by labor unions SNPL and SPAF, which represent approximately 75 percent of the airline’s workforce. The strikes coincide with the opening of the Euro 2016 soccer tournament, which is being hosted at venues across France. In a statement to Air Traffic World, the pilots unions’ say they are protesting employee downsizing at the French flag carrier, which has reduced staff positions despite gains.
The airline notes only Air France flights will be affected by the strike actions and no KLM flights will be delayed. While the schedule is currently set through June 11, flight schedules for June 12 through June 14 will be published on the Air France website 24 hours ahead of a flight. Those who are affected by the strikes will be given the option to change their itinerary online between June 15 and June 21 without penalty. Those who do not wish to travel due to the schedule may qualify for a non-refundable airfare voucher.
The situation marks the third time this year strikes have affected passengers departing from France. In January, two strikes forced a number of flights to be canceled by Air France. In May, an oil workers’ strike forced Air France and at least two other airlines to alter schedules and cancel flights.
[Photo: Air France]
They understand but they don't care. It's what a socialist society is all about. And if we are not careful we could see it here if unions get more control. I enjoy flying AF but careful what time of the year I book flights because of this. AF makes DL look good !!
Those workers don't understand that they are condemning their company's fate.. If as usual, they will then go on strike to get their strike days paid. I know what I'm talking about. I used to be FB gold, and I decided to change when a family member got stuck at outstation due to a AF strike.