Why are there travel strikes in France? Is my flight cancelled? Are UK airports ... trends now

Flights across Europe have been delayed or cancelled after transport workers in France went on strike, with protests against president Emmanuel Macron resuming. 

Strikes on Labour Day by air traffic controllers in France have had a knock-on effect across the rest of Europe. 

But why are there travel strikes in France? Which airlines are affected? Is your flight cancelled? Are UK airports open? 

Here is everything you need to know about the latest travel strikes and if they impact your plans. 

Air traffic controllers, as well as members of the French national rail company SNCF, are striking in protest against proposed pension reforms by Macron. 

His reforms would see the retirement age in France increased from 62 to 64 years old. 

It would also force workers to contribute to the pension system for longer, as state pensions in the country are financed by a payroll tax. 

Indeed, the public are not just angry at Macron for increasing the retirement age, as he used a special presidential decree (Article 49.3) to pass his proposals through the National Assembly without approval. 

This has been perceived as undemocratic, with outraged civilians determined to make themselves heard in response. 

Civilians and workers also argue that, if he is using Article 49.3 to increase the retirement age now, there is nothing to stop him doing so again in the future.

Protests have been ongoing since January 2023.  

Low-cost airline Ryanair has said it would have to cancel 220 flights on 2 May, due to the strikes by air traffic controllers in France. 

Meanwhile, EasyJet has also been forced to cancel flights to French destinations from major UK airports, including London Gatwick, Luton, Bristol and Manchester.

British Airways has also cancelled around 40 flights to and from London, with passengers being offered a full refund, the chance to

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