Air traffic controllers in France: changes to the strike notice for October 7, 8 and 9

France avoids another air traffic controller strike. The main union has suspended its notice period scheduled for October 7, 8 and 9, 2025, after making progress with the DGAC. Travellers have gained some respite, but will remain on their guard for the next few days.

What changed after the negotiations

According to announcements, the strike notice has been suspended, not withdrawn. As a result, dialogue is continuing on staffing, schedules and modernization. The DGAC and the main union, SNCTA, have agreed on milestones and a work schedule.

Discussions are focusing on safety, capacity and the attractiveness of the profession. Written commitments are also expected on controller training. The strike call had put pressure on a more precise social protocol.

Airports were preparing to cut back. However, the suspension limits the immediate impact on flight schedules. The threat of strike action has not been lifted, and vigilance remains the order of the day.

“Notice suspended, vigilance maintained for passengers and companies.”

Timetable and visibility for passengers

The key dates remain October 7, 8 and 9, 2025. This gives travelers a little more visibility before making any decisions. Companies will adjust their offer if the context evolves towards a strike.

The law requires individual declarations of intent within 48 hours. As a result, civil aviation can better forecast service levels. Passengers should follow their notifications, especially if the strike returns to the agenda.

• Check the status of your flight on the airline’s application.
• Anticipate connections and plan B.
• Keep receipts in case of unexpected expenses.
• Know your rights to assistance and coverage.
• Keep in touch and update your contact details.

The stakes at the heart of the tug-of-war

The crux of the matter is staffing and succession planning. It takes several years to train a controller. The strike call revealed the tension between operational needs and availability.

Schedules, fatigue and night shifts are among the demands being made. As a result, adjustments to schedules and guarantees are being discussed. The risk of strike action diminishes if concrete measures are taken quickly.

The modernization of control systems remains strategic. The technical timetable also needs to be aligned with human resources. The objective is clear: prevent a recurring strike by securing the transition.

What disruptions are still possible?

Minority organizations could maintain an action. However, the actual extent of action would depend on individual declarations. So another strike cannot be ruled out if dialogue stalls.

The European network absorbs some of the uncertainties. In this way, neighboring centers can support certain flows. Waves of strikes, however, upset the balance of slots.

Practical advice and travellers’ rights

Stay flexible on schedules and itineraries. Target direct flights whenever possible. In the event of astrike, assistance is still due, but compensation may be limited by the Extraordinary Events Plan.

Keep proof of expenses: meals, hotel, ground transportation. Also, inquire about postponement without charge or reimbursement. Travel insurance sometimes covers major delays, depending on the contract.

Inform third parties affected by your trip. Tell your employer, guests or customers in advance. In short, early communication mitigates the domino effect of a future strike.

• Strike