French air traffic control announces new strike on 18 September

Another strike by French air traffic controllers is planned for Thursday September 18^th 2025. This is the second time this year that the air traffic in France has been disrupted by the air traffic controllers’ industrial action. Whereas the strike in July was mainly organised by smaller trade unions, experts predict this new action to have a much greater impact on flights to and from France.

Why are they striking?

Air traffic controllers are putting their work down to demand better pay and working conditions. Their main demand: their salaries should be fully in line with inflation.

The strike will begin early in the morning on September 18^th and will continue until the end of the nightshift the following day. This means that travelers should expect major disruptions to air traffic throughout most of the day.

What does this mean for you as a passenger?

When air traffic controllers strike, it can lead to cancelled or delayed flights throughout France.

Our advice:

Check the status of your flight regularly via the official website of your airline or airport.

These are your rights:

Has your flight been cancelled due to the strike? Because the strike is being carried out by air traffic control rather than the airlines, you are not entitled to EU261 compensation. However, as a passenger, you are entitled to:

– a full refund of your ticket or rebooking of your flight;

– Care from the airline, including food and drink and hotel accommodation if necessary.