MOSCOW, September 19 (RIA Novosti) – More than 55 percent of Air France flights will be canceled on Saturday because of an ongoing strike by its pilots, the airline stated on Friday.
As for flights to Moscow, only six out of 35 will be carried out. Two flights to St. Petersburg have also been canceled. Overall, Air France plans to operate only 16 percent of its flights to Russia on Saturday.
The strike, which is expected to last till Sunday, began Monday as airline staff was opposed to a proposed guidance plan to optimize the company’s costs because of fear of losing their jobs or part of their income. Air France has reassured customers, offering them refunds or a change of departure dates. For passengers stuck at airports, the company is providing hotel accommodation, meals and, in some cases, financial compensation.
According to company estimates, the strike may cost the airline between 12.9 million dollars and 19.4 million dollars a day, depending on how many pilots participate.
