Etihad Skips Disruption Amidst French Strike

Etihad Airways Operates Smoothly Despite French Air Traffic Control Strike

Due to another nationwide strike by French air traffic controllers, multiple airlines were forced to cancel or reschedule flights for July 4th. On this day, the French Civil Aviation Authority (DGAC) reduced the number of permitted flights at Paris airports by 40 percent, which could particularly cause major disruptions at the beginning of the European summer vacation period. However, positive news has come from Abu Dhabi-based Etihad Airways regarding flights to and from France: the airline announced that their flights are currently operating according to schedule.

Etihad Flight Uninterruptedness

While other airlines, including an Irish low-cost company, were forced to cancel hundreds of flights, Etihad Airways confirmed that its flights to and from Paris are operating smoothly. The airline is closely monitoring the situation and continuously updating passengers on its official website at etihad.com/flightstatus.

A company spokesperson emphasized that despite the planned industrial action, flights between Abu Dhabi and Paris are running on their regular schedule without any disruptions or delays.

Background of the French Strike

The French DGAC had already indicated on Wednesday that significant traffic restrictions would take effect at Paris airports on July 4th, considered one of the busiest days during the summer peak period. The reason for the work stoppage is that the air traffic controller unions are again expressing their dissatisfaction with the lack of wage advancements and the planned structural changes.

This is not the first such instance: as early as April 2024, a nationwide strike had paralyzed French airspace after negotiations for pay raises collapsed. The current action once again highlights the sensitivity of European air traffic to such industrial conflicts.

Why Etihad Flights Are Unaffected

One of the key factors for Etihad Airways is the flexible flight route planning and direct cooperation with French authorities, allowing their flights to participate in the heavily restricted airspace use. Additionally, it is advantageous that the company does not operate exclusively during the busiest time slots, making them less exposed to peak period restrictions.

Advice for Passengers

Etihad Airways advises all passengers to check their flight status on the official website before traveling, as the situation can change rapidly. Potential further strike waves or the extension of current impacts may bring new changes, hence real-time information is particularly important.

(The article source is Etihad Airways' statement.)