On May 1 and 2, 2023, a French air traffic controllers' strike caused widespread air travel disruptions. The strike began at 6 p.m. on April 30 and was originally scheduled to end at 6 a.m. on May 2, but was extended until 6 a.m. on May 3 at Paris-Orly airport. Airlines were ordered to cease 33% of flights at Orly Airport and 25% of flights at Paris Charles de Gaulle on the initial day of the strike, with the subsequent day primarily impacting flights to and from Orly. The strike affected all flights that used French airspace, including overfly flights.
In response to the strike, the French Civil Aviation Authority (DGAC) requested that all airlines reduce their flight schedules to and from certain French airports on May 1 and 2, 2023. Air France declared that on May 1, all its long-haul flights and practically 7 in 10 short and medium-haul flights would be running, and that all its long-haul flights, all flights to and from Paris Charles-de-Gaulle, and around 7 in 10 flights between Paris-Orly and certain French airports will be operational on May 2. However, last-minute cancellations and delays could not be ruled out.
Customers affected by flight cancellations were notified individually by SMS, email, or the Air France application. Commercial measures were implemented to allow customers to bring forward or postpone their flights free of charge, and those whose flights were canceled could receive a voucher or a full refund if they chose not to travel. Air France apologized for the strike and tried to minimize the impact on its customers.
Under European Union EC 261/2004 Air Passengers' Rights, passengers could rebook to their final destination at the earliest opportunity, even if it meant transferring to a competing carrier. Airlines were also responsible for providing Duty to Care, including meals and accommodation in the event of long delays. Passengers also had the option to receive a refund if their flight was canceled or significantly delayed.
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