Massive French general strike on 10th September poses disruptions for millions of train and air travelers

The upcoming air traffic controllers' strike in France, scheduled from the 18th to the 19th of September, is set to cause significant disruption to air travel across Europe. Thousands of flights are expected to be grounded due to the strike, which will affect flights not bound for France but scheduled to cross French airspace.

The strike, under the slogan "Bloquons tout" (let's block everything), is being organised on social media by the citizens' collective Indignons Nous. It is a response to Prime Minister Francois Bayrou's controversial austerity plan, which includes proposals to scrap two public holidays, freeze pensions, cut €5 billion in health spending, and aim to slash €43.8 billion from the national budget.

The political climate in France is volatile, with grievances extending beyond austerity to include the cost-of-living crisis, perceived democratic deficits, and a sense of being "left behind." The backing of mainstream figures such as Jean-Luc Melenchon, leader of France Unbowed, has ensured the strike is no longer a fringe idea.

Large-scale disruption due to the air traffic controllers' strike may require re-routing that could take days in some cases. Widespread cancellations and delays are expected on routes between the UK, Spain, Italy, and beyond. Airports across Europe may also feel the impact of additional industrial action later in the month.

Passengers are advised to check with airlines and rail operators frequently, allow extra time for connections, and be prepared for last-minute changes due to the strikes. Travellers whose flights are cancelled during the air traffic controllers' strike are entitled to rebooking, hotel accommodation, and meals under EU passenger rights legislation.

Historian Andrew W M Smith argues that if Bayrou's government collapses, the protests will only grow stronger. However, concerns have been raised over possible foreign influence, with signs of astroturfing and bot activity designed to amplify divisions.

Unlike traditional strike actions, "Block everything" is not centrally controlled by unions or political parties, although both left-wing movements and the hard-left CGT union have voiced support. The Sud-Rail union, one of the three largest in France, has pledged to join the movement with a "massive strike," which could lead to thousands of cancellations across the SNCF network.

The protests echo the Yellow Vest protests of 2018, which also emerged spontaneously online and expanded into a nationwide movement challenging political elites. The movement calls for a day of disobedience, boycott, and solidarity against Prime Minister Francois Bayrou's austerity plan. Calls to boycott large retailers, withdraw cash from banks, and occupy symbolic public buildings reflect the campaign's attempt to broaden beyond workplace action.

The strike could disrupt rail services, domestic flights, ferries, and cross-border connections. In addition, the 10th of September general strike may cause disruption to rail, ferries, fuel distribution, and potentially local transport. It's a critical time for travellers to stay informed and plan accordingly.