May 1st Strike: Air Traffic Controllers Grounded

The General Directorate of Civil Aviation (DGAC) announced today its participation in the strike planned by the union coalition on May 1^st, 2023.

The strike on May 1^st, 2023, is expected to be a major day of nationwide union mobilization to protest against pension reform. In this regard, the General Directorate of Civil Aviation (or DGAC) has requested airline companies to reduce their flights before and after this day.

According to our colleagues at Parisien, the flight reductions concern airports across France. Thus, the DGAC aims to cut 25% of flights from Paris-CDG, Nice, and Paris Beauvais. The figure rises to 33% for airports of Paris-Orly, Marseille-Provence, Lyon, Bordeaux, Nantes, and Toulouse.

If you need to travel during this period, be sure to check with your airline!

What does a air traffic controllers’ strike really mean?

During a strike involving the DGAC, air traffic controllers are those who cease their work. Mobiwisy has attempted to identify their role in the aviation field to understand why these officials have such an impact on French airspace during strikes.

As the name indicates, an air traffic controller is responsible for monitoring the airspace. They manage the flow of aircraft, at altitude and around their home airport. Sometimes called the sky traffic controller, their role is crucial in guiding pilots in the sky until they arrive at the landing runway.

Therefore, their presence is vital for the proper functioning of the airport. They work in rotating shifts, accompanied by colleagues, for a 32-hour work week. Air traffic controllers undergo a 5-year training, including passing the entrance exam at the National School of Civil Aviation (ENAC) in Toulouse.

During an air traffic controllers’ strike, the government guarantees a minimum service. With fewer air traffic controllers available, it becomes impossible to ensure the smooth operation of all flights across the country. Thus, the DGAC cancels flights to ensure safety for all!

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