Why French Air Traffic controllers went on strike and cancelled 1,500 flights
Ryanair CEO Michael O'Leary accused French unions of "holding families to ransom" and demanded that EU authorities protect overflights during national strikes.WHY ARE CONTROLLERS STRIKING? Union leaders cited staffing shortages, ageing equipment, and toxic workplace conditions as key drivers behind the strike. One union official told Reuters that many tools used by controllers are "on their last legs," forcing overburdened teams to manage increased traffic with insufficient resources.French Transport Minister Philippe Tabarot condemned the strike's timing but acknowledged the need to address the safety concerns raised by air traffic staff.WHAT TRAVELLERS SHOULD DO: Passengers are advised to:Check airline apps for real-time updatesKnow their rights under EU travel rules, which require refunds or rebookingsAvoid transiting through French airports this week, if possibleExperts warn of further disruptions this summer unless sweeping reforms are made to Europe's air traffic system.- Ends
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