Brace Yourself for Travel Chaos in France as New Rail and Air Strikes Set to Disrupt November and December Winter Trips

Thursday, November 14, 2024

If you’re planning to visit or travel within France this November and December, get ready for potential chaos. Major French unions, including transport workers and farmers, are gearing up for what’s expected to be a season of strikes, aiming to disrupt both travel and services.

Rail Strike Set to Hit France Hard on 21 November

France’s rail unions are uniting for a one-day nationwide strike on Thursday, 21 November, with the potential to cause severe disruption across the rail network. And this might just be the beginning. The unions have warned that if the government doesn’t meet their demands, a “longer and stronger” strike could kick off on 11 December, possibly spilling into the busy Christmas travel season.

The driving force? Unions are protesting the increased privatization of the national rail company, SNCF, along with other regional and commuter rail services. Since the French rail market opened up in 2019, international players like Spain’s Renfe and Italy’s Trenitalia have been running services in France, breaking SNCF’s long-standing monopoly. The unions see this as a threat to national control over public transport, and they’re pushing back.

Airlines Face Turbulence as French Pilots Plan Strike for 14 November

It’s not just trains. France’s National Union of Airline Pilots (SNPL) has announced a one-day strike for 14 November, which could impact Air France and other airlines employing French pilots. This action is a reaction to the government’s proposal to increase the “solidarity tax” on flight tickets by a staggering 300%. If it goes through, passengers flying economy within Europe could see a hike from €3 to €9.50, and business class tickets for long-haul flights could rise by up to €120.

The government plans to use the funds raised to help cover gaps in the 2025 budget, but pilots argue this hefty tax hike is being implemented without considering the industry’s input.

Farmers and Civil Servants to Join Strike Wave

On top of travel disruptions, France’s farmers are planning protests that might involve blocking roads, targeting Spanish and other EU trucks delivering produce. Civil servants are also expected to stage three separate days of action in early December, although dates are yet to be confirmed.

Striking: A Proud French Tradition of “Orderly Disorder”

Striking is deeply rooted in French culture, dating back to the 1789 Revolution and becoming legal in 1864. Today, it’s a powerful tool for demanding better conditions, wages, or fighting against government policies. Well-organized and highly disciplined unions lead these strikes, which have come to symbolize the power of French solidarity. This year, although quieter until now, is poised to make up for lost time with what could be a chaotic end to 2024.

Travelers should brace for potential delays and disruptions, keeping a close eye on ongoing developments as the strike season in France heats up.

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