Published on
September 19, 2025
France’s travel sector is currently facing significant disruptions as the ongoing “Bloquons Tout” strikes intensify, with protests and roadblocks paralyzing major cities and transport hubs across the country. These strikes, sparked by widespread discontent with President Macron’s proposed budget cuts and pension reforms, have led to severe delays in air, rail, and public transport services. As if this weren’t enough, the upcoming air traffic controller strike set for October 7–9, 2025, threatens to escalate the chaos further, with major disruptions expected at airports and throughout France’s transportation network. These events, compounded by growing political unrest, are likely to cause widespread inconvenience for both domestic and international travelers.
France is in the midst of a significant wave of protests and strikes that is causing substantial disruption to its travel sector. As the country grapples with a series of austerity measures and growing political instability, the travel and transport industries are bearing the brunt. The ongoing “Bloquons Tout” protests and strikes, fueled by dissatisfaction with President Emmanuel Macron’s fiscal policies, have caused widespread disruptions across major cities, with the air traffic controller strike in October expected to worsen the situation further. Here’s everything you need to know about the strikes and their effects on the travel sector.
The “Bloquons Tout” Strikes: What Are They?
The “Bloquons Tout” movement, which translates to “Block Everything,” emerged as a grassroots protest against the French government’s proposed budget cuts and pension reforms. The movement, initially driven by younger citizens online, quickly gained traction through social media. The “Bloquons Tout” strikes are largely spearheaded by trade unions, including the General Confederation of Labour (CGT), the French Democratic Confederation of Labour (CFDT), Force Ouvrière (FO), and the Solidaires Union (SUD), among others. The protest movement primarily targets the government’s austerity measures, which include cuts to public spending, pension freezes, and higher healthcare costs.
The protests began in September and have been escalating with each passing day. The movement has seen mass demonstrations, roadblocks, school closures, and strikes across the country, including in major cities such as Paris, Lyon, Marseille, Lille, and Toulouse. In addition to the economic measures, the strikes are also rooted in deep dissatisfaction with the French government’s handling of economic recovery following the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as the rising levels of debt.
These protests have led to direct impacts on the transportation and travel sector, causing significant disruption in daily life for both locals and international visitors.
Strikes Affecting Key Travel Hubs Across France
The ongoing “Bloquons Tout” strikes have caused widespread disruptions at airports, train stations, and public transport hubs across France. On September 18, 2025, the strikes reached a peak, leading to protests and roadblocks in major cities. Protesters gathered early in the morning to shut down streets and block access to key infrastructure. The strikes have affected both public and private transportation networks.
Paris: Ground Zero for Travel Disruptions
In Paris, the capital city and one of the most important international travel hubs, the impact of the strikes has been particularly severe. As a result of the protests, Paris metro stations and train lines were either partially or fully shut down. The Paris RER (Regional Express Network), which connects the city to its suburban areas, faced delays, and many passengers found themselves stranded as train services were significantly reduced.
The strikes also led to partial shutdowns of famous tourist attractions, such as the Arc de Triomphe and the Louvre Museum, which were either closed for the day or operated at reduced hours. Many schools were closed in response to the strike, with one-third of teachers joining the protests. Pharmacies and several businesses in Paris also shut their doors in solidarity with the striking unions.
Regional Disruptions: Lyon, Marseille, and More
Other cities, including Lyon, Marseille, and Lille, also saw significant disruptions. In Marseille, protesters shut down key transport routes and blockaded the Eurolinks Arms Factory, citing its alleged involvement in supplying equipment to Israel. These protests were part of a broader solidarity movement with Palestinians in Gaza, adding a layer of political activism to the strikes.
In the southeastern city of Chambery, protesters took to cycling on the streets to disrupt traffic, while in Rennes, students blocked school entrances, demanding higher taxes on the rich and greater social welfare protections. This widespread disruption created a ripple effect on domestic and international travel, as passengers struggled to navigate the congested roads and public transport systems.
The Upcoming Air Traffic Controller Strike: October 7–9, 2025
As if the ongoing protests and strikes were not enough, France is now bracing for the upcoming air traffic controller strike, scheduled for October 7–9, 2025. The Syndicat National des Contrôleurs du Trafic Aérien (SNCTA), the largest union representing French air traffic controllers, has called for the strike in response to staffing issues and demands for higher wages to keep up with inflation.
The strike will likely have a significant impact on both domestic and international flights. The union is demanding better working conditions, salary adjustments, and reforms to governance within the aviation sector. Although the union initially planned for the strike to coincide with the September protests, they decided to delay it until October to allow for more preparation and ensure maximum impact.
Expected Disruptions: Widespread Cancellations and Delays
The air traffic controller strike is expected to cause severe disruptions across French airspace. High-speed trains and regional rail services may be affected as well, as train routes often intersect with flight paths. Airlines operating flights to and from France are already advising passengers to monitor flight schedules and be prepared for delays and cancellations. The French government has already warned travelers to expect significant disruptions at major airports, especially Paris Charles de Gaulle, Orly, and Nice, as air traffic controllers will be on strike for a full three-day period.
Travel Advisory: What Travelers Need to KnowMonitor Flight Schedules
Travelers planning to visit France or transit through French airspace between October 7 and 9, 2025, are advised to regularly check with their airlines for real-time updates on flight cancellations and delays. Many airlines, including Air France, Ryanair, and easyJet, are expected to experience flight program reductions, and re-routing may be required.
Arrive Early and Prepare for Longer Wait Times
If you’re traveling to or from France during these periods, it’s crucial to arrive early at the airport. With staffing shortages and increased security checks due to the strike, passengers should anticipate longer lines for check-in and baggage drop. It’s recommended that travelers arrive at least 3 hours before international flights to avoid missing their flights.
Stay Informed with Official Updates
Stay connected to official sources for the most up-to-date information. The DGAC and Eurocontrol websites will provide the latest details on air traffic control strikes, flight status, and potential flight rerouting. Travelers should also check local news for updates on train and public transport disruptions, as these will likely affect getting around in cities like Paris, Marseille, and Lyon.
A Broader Look at France’s Economic and Political Landscape
The “Bloquons Tout” strikes and protests are not just about labor dissatisfaction; they represent a broader political crisis in France. The protests began after Prime Minister François Bayrou’s resignation, which followed a vote of no confidence in his government. President Macron’s selection of Sébastien Lecornu as the new prime minister has only added fuel to the fire, as many French citizens view the choice as an attempt to maintain the status quo amidst growing discontent.
The Economic and Social Impact of Macron’s Reforms
The government’s proposed budget cuts, totaling 44 billion euros ($52 billion) in 2026, are seen as a direct attack on workers’ rights and social services. The protests have already caused a significant shift in public opinion, with many citizens calling for Macron to reverse pension reforms and address the country’s growing wealth inequality. Calls for the wealthy and corporations to pay higher taxes to help reduce the national debt are becoming louder.
Looking Ahead: What’s Next for France?
While the current protests and strikes are causing significant disruptions, the French government is determined to press ahead with its economic reforms. Prime Minister Lecornu has met with opposition parties in an attempt to rally support for the budget, but the leftist Socialist Party has already proposed an alternative budget, which focuses on taxing the wealthy and cutting business subsidies. The upcoming air traffic controller strike in October will only increase the pressure on Macron’s government, as the protests have already affected the nation’s economic stability.
France’s travel sector is facing widespread disruptions as the “Bloquons Tout” strikes intensify, fueled by protests against President Macron’s austerity measures. With an air traffic controller strike scheduled for October, the chaos is set to escalate further, impacting both domestic and international travelers.
As France grapples with political instability, budget cuts, and austerity measures, its travel and transport sector is experiencing unprecedented levels of disruption. The ongoing “Bloquons Tout” strikes have paralyzed major cities, with transport, schools, and businesses all feeling the impact. With the air traffic controller strike looming in October, travelers should prepare for further delays, cancellations, and rerouting, especially if they plan to travel to or from France during this period.
