Following the cabin crew strike in mid-August, the pilots at the low-cost airline in France are now protesting against the "chronic instability" of their work schedules, announcing plans for a two-day strike scheduled for September 13th and 14th. The industrial action, organized by the Syndicat national des pilotes de ligne (SNPL), comes shortly after the airline reached a separate agreement with cabin crew unions to resolve a dispute regarding working conditions.
The primary driver of this upcoming protest is what the SNPL describes as the "chronic instability" of pilot work schedules. According to the union, flight personnel frequently face schedule changes multiple times within a single week. The union asserts that this instability creates significant difficulties for pilots trying to manage their rest periods, medical appointments, and overall family life.
Beyond personal convenience, the SNPL argues that these recurring schedule modifications pose broader risks. The union claims that the lack of predictability can negatively impact pilot recovery and alertness, which they suggest may have potential consequences for overall flight safety and working conditions.
As of now, there is no official projection regarding the number of potential flight delays or cancellations. The extent of the disruption will likely depend on individual pilot participation levels and the specific adjustments EasyJet makes to its flight schedule during the strike period. Passengers traveling to or from France on these dates are advised to monitor their flight status closely via the EasyJet website or mobile app, particularly within 48 hours of departure.
Airports with French-based crews are considered the most exposed to potential operational impacts, including Paris-Orly, Paris Charles de Gaulle, Lyon, Nice, Nantes, Bordeaux, and Toulouse. However, the union and airline have not indicated that every flight from these hubs will necessarily be affected. Travelers should be aware that knock-on disruptions could also occur on the day following the strike. Under European Union regulations, passengers on affected flights may be entitled to compensation for cancellations or delays, in addition to ticket refunds or reimbursement for expenses incurred due to the disruption. Keep an eye on upcoming strikes in France here.
Check your flight status on the easyJet website or app, particularly in the 48 hours before departure and again on the day of travel.
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