French air traffic controllers went on strike, forcing the cancellation of many inbound and outbound flights

French air traffic controllers went on a two-day strike starting Thursday (July 3rd) to demand improved working conditions, which led to the cancellation of several flights during the summer peak season.

Reuters reported that the French Civil Aviation Authority has asked airlines to reduce the number of flights entering and leaving France, including Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport, in response to the impact of this strike.

Air France stated that it has adjusted its flight schedule but did not disclose specific details, saying that its long-haul flights will operate as usual.

Ryanair said it was forced to cancel 170 flights, affecting more than 30,000 passengers, with the majority of flights occurring on Thursday and Friday. In addition to the cancellation of flights to and from France, this strike will also affect all flights passing through French airspace.

UNSA-ICNA, the second-largest air traffic control workers' union in France, said that the union members' strike was to protest against the ongoing shortage of staff, aging equipment and negative management culture.

French Transport Minister Philippe Tabarot said the demands of the trade unions were "unacceptable".