Are French easyJet workers going to strike this week?
A strike motion filed last week over closure of carrier’s Toulouse base begins from today
The carrier's Toulouse base will be closed in spring 2025
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The strike motion of a key union representing easyJet flight staff comes into force today (September 16), but is yet to cause disruption to flights.
The unlimited strike has been called by the Union des navigants de l’aviation civile (Unac) in response to the upcoming closure of easyJet’s Toulouse base.
Read more: ‘Unlimited’ easyJet strike notice announced over plan to close French base
However, talks are ongoing between unions and the low-cost carrier over the base’s closure, meaning that whilst staff can strike from today, there are currently no notices of workers planning to walk out on specific dates.
“The strike notice... in reaction to easyJet's proposal to close the Toulouse base was lodged before the first discussions,” between unions and the airline, a spokesperson from the carrier told French media outlet Le Monde.
“To date, there has been no impact on our flights in Toulouse and in France,” they added.
The airline employs around 125 people at the airport, who have been offered relocation to one of easyJet’s six other bases in France.
Read more: EasyJet announces surprise closure of its base at Toulouse airport
Key talks begin
Talks between worker representatives at the company’s Comité social et économique (CSE) began today, and talks over the possible termination of contracts will begin on Tuesday (September 17) between easyJet and union representatives.
Depending on how these talks go, the Unac may call on workers to strike immediately, or wait for a later date to call for a new strike.
Workers can walk out in short notice if talks break down, as the strike motion has already been filed.
In addition, other unions may also be asked to join in the action. The UNAC represents around one-third of the 1,200 or so flight staff employed by easyJet in France, with the others backed by various others.
If talks sour, other unions may be persuaded to join in.
Those planning to fly to or from France with the carrier in the coming weeks are recommended to regularly check the status of their flight, as it may be impacted.
A recent strike by easyJet staff flying to Portugal grounded over 200 flights in August.
