Pilot strikes could disrupt Air France passenger travel

Holidaymakers preparing to fly with Air France next week could face disruptions in their travel plans as the airline expects to face strike action from its pilots.

Despite the fact that talks are ongoing between union officials, the airline has decided to take action early, suggesting that strikes are imminent.

Air France has made alternative arrangements for passengers set to fly between September 15th and 22nd, allowing them to postpone their trip, according to Travelmole.

Anyone set to use the airline during this period will also have the option to exchange their tickets for vouchers free of charge. The voucher can be used for up to one year on Air France or KLM airlines after the end of September.

It is understood that the cause of the strike is due to a dispute regarding Air France’s strategy to compete against low-cost flight providers in Europe.

The SNPL union has urged its members, many of which are Air France pilots, to down tools and strike as a result of this.

Earlier this week, Air France-KLM announced that investment in its low-cost alternative Transavia would be a big priority over the next couple of years. However, SNPL wants to ensure that pilots who fly for the Transavia brand receive the same pay and benefits as those who fly Air France.

The airline said in a statement: "Air France is continuing its constant dialogue with the staff unions and discussions will continue over the next few days in order to reach an agreement.”

It added that “sales teams will inform customers of any changes to their flight schedule.”

If a week of strikes does happen, it could cost the airline up to €40 million (£31 million) a day, or at least this is what the union is claiming.

Although Air France is offering an alternative for flights, other holiday costs, such as accommodation and organised tours, may not be so easily refunded.

One of the benefits of having a travel insurance policy in place is that it can offer holidaymakers support in the event something like this happens.

Posted by Anne Jones.

Published 11 Sep 2014

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