Air Corsica Is Short of Pilots and Planes at the Same Time

Air Corsica is in the middle of an eight-day pilot strike that runs from 9 to 16 October, with flights between Corsica and mainland France sharply reduced. The walkout was called by the SNPL and SPAC unions, which together represent about 140 pilots, after talks over pay, work schedules and vacation rules failed. It is described as the first major pilot strike in the airline’s history, and talks were still ongoing on 12 October.

Flights at Ajaccio, Bastia and Figari have been heavily reduced, although some Calvi–Nice services resumed on 12 October. Replacement aircraft and bus transfers between island airports are helping to maintain a minimal level of service. The pilots had earlier accepted concessions to help the airline consolidate its business, which gives the dispute added weight: this is a workforce that had already made compromises before it walked out.

A separate problem compounds the strike. Precautionary engine checks have grounded five of Air Corsica’s seven ATR 72-600 aircraft. The issue is distinct from the strike, but it limits what the airline can fly even when pilots are available, so scheduling is likely to stay tight when the walkout ends. Travellers planning trips to Corsica later in October should keep an eye on their booking and be prepared for changes.

Passengers disrupted by a strike by the airline’s own pilots may qualify for compensation under EU rules, depending on the flight circumstances, in addition to rights to an alternative flight or a full refund. Long delays bring food and refreshments, and overnight delays away from home bring accommodation and transport. Gather proof of your delay or cancellation, ask for written confirmation of the cause, keep receipts, and avoid signing anything that waives your rights.

Sources: AirHelp