France is bracing for widespread travel disruptions as multiple transport unions have called for strikes on September 10 and 18. The industrial action, organized in protest against government austerity measures and proposed cuts to public services, is expected to affect air, rail, and metro services nationwide.
Three major railway unions—CGT-Cheminots, UNSA-Ferroviaire, and CFDT-Cheminots—have jointly called for a mass strike on September 18. In a shared statement, they urged all railway workers to join the walkout and participate in demonstrations. The unions are demanding better working conditions, wage increases reflecting inflation, and protections against the elimination of public holidays, which they say would amount to “working for free.”
In the aviation sector, the National Union of Air Traffic Controllers (SNCTA) has also announced a strike for September 18, calling for full inflation-adjusted wage increases and changes in how their profession is governed. Air France’s largest union, Force Ouvrière, has filed a strike notice for the same day, while the CGT Air France has called for action on both September 10 and 18.
Meanwhile, Paris public transport is also expected to face significant interruptions. The four main unions of the RATP—CGT, Force Ouvrière, UNSA-Mobilité, and CFE-CGC—have jointly called for a strike on September 18. They oppose budget cuts, the removal of public holidays, reduced healthcare coverage, and the planned opening of the Île-de-France bus network to competition.
Transport Minister Philippe Tabarot has stated that the government will not yield to the unions’ demands. With little progress in negotiations so far, travelers are advised to prepare for cancellations and delays on these dates.
