A strike by French air traffic controllers has disrupted flights for the second day, leaving many passengers stranded as Europe enters its peak travel season. According to the Civil Aviation Agency (DGAC), 40% of flights at three main Paris airports were cancelled on Friday due to staff shortages and ageing equipment.
Passengers are facing significant disruptions, with up to half of flights at other French airports affected. Italian tourist Mariano Mignola was among those stranded, saying “We are hostages of Paris” after being forced to return home early and having no options for accommodation or transportation.
French transport minister Philippe Tabarot has called the strike unacceptable, while Ryanair boss Michael O’Leary has branded it a “recreational strike”. The Airlines for Europe (A4E) lobby group reports that 1,500 flights have been cancelled over two days, affecting 300,000 passengers and causing widespread delays.
The DGAC warns of further disruptions, including potential flight cancellations and significant delays. As Europe’s peak travel season gets underway, the strike is causing growing frustration among passengers and airlines alike.
Source: https://www.reuters.com/world/europe/french-air-traffic-controllers-strike-disrupts-flights-second-day-2025-07-04