Widespread flight cancellations and delays across Europe have been averted after French air traffic controllers (ATC) delayed their strike action following the dismissal of French Prime Minister after a vote of no confidence.
Bayrou Dismissed, Lecornu Appointed
The Syndicat National Des Controleurs du Trafic Aerien (SNCTA) announced that the strike action previously set to take place on Sept. 17-19 has been halted until the morning of Oct. 7-10. This decision follows the dismissal of Prime Minister Francois Bayrou, after a vote of no confidence from the French parliament.
President Emmanuel Macron moved swiftly to appoint Sebastien Lecornu as Bayrou’s successor. However, such a quick decision has left the SNCTA without a government to negotiate with.
SNCTA General Secretary Guillaume Sintes said:
“Given that a new prime minister has been appointed and that some time will be needed to form a government, we have no one to negotiate with to reach an agreement on our demands at ministerial level by September 18”
Airlines Brace for More Strike Disruptions
Despite the delay of strikes, European airlines remain wary, considering Europe has had a turbulent summer of strikes. The upcoming strike is expected to impact air routes crossing French airspace – including flights from London to mainland Spain, the Canary Islands and Madeira.
Ryanair, one of the most affected carriers, had anticipated over 700 flight cancellations and disruptions for 125,000 passengers during the September strike. And previously, the Irish-based airline had cancelled 170 flights during another French ATC strike in early July 2025. Urging flyers to take action following continuous delays and disruptions, criticising ATC mismanagement and inefficiencies.
Ryanair’s CEO, Michael O’Leary, voiced his frustrations over the disruptions:
“The French can go on strike, but Europe must protect overflights”
O’Leary continued his concern, extending to heavy criticism of European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen:
“As usual, Ursula von der Leyen has done nothing over the last 12 months on the Draghi Report or ATC reform. Europe’s airlines are agreed on 2 simple and effective reforms, namely (1) ensuring that national ATC providers are fully staffed for the first daily wave of departures and (2) protecting overflights during national ATC strikes. President von der Leyen, who talks a lot about efficiency and competitiveness has repeatedly failed to do anything about it. It is not too late for her to stop talking and start doing.”
With a further ATC strike looming, airlines and passengers brace themselves for yet another month of travel uncertainty. What are your thoughts? Let us know in the comments below!
