Airlines operating out of Ireland are bracing themselves for flight disruptions after French air traffic controllers confirmed that their strike action will go ahead tomorrow. French air traffic control will operate at a reduced capacity tomorrow, allowing for east-bound overflight to facilitate aircraft arriving in Europe from the US and Canada.
The brunt of the disruption will be felt in northern Europe, in particular direct flights to France and long-haul flights that normally cross French airspace. Although many of these flights will go ahead, delays are expected.
The strike notice was issued by the Federation of Air Traffic Control Unions in Europe, a group representing aviation authorities across the continent. The disruption could be compounded if Spanish air traffic controllers go ahead with their planned strike on Thursday.
Aer Lingus operates three return flights from Dublin to Paris on Wednesday, one flight to Nice and two flights from Cork to Paris.
Ryanair has warned passengers to expect flight delays and cancellations if the strike goes ahead. It operates four return flights from Dublin to Paris Beauvais on Wednesday. It also has flights from London, Stansted and flights from continental European airports to a number of destinations in France.
"If it goes ahead on Wednesday, there will be no flights to France from any airlines," a spokesman for Cityjet said.
The airline operates five flights from Dublin to Paris and four return flights on Wednesdays.