French transport strikes and Corsica Linea labor dispute

The CGT union initiated a 48-hour renewable strike at Corsica Linea starting September 29, 2026. The industrial action was prompted by protests against the chartering of the vessel Massalia, which the union claims would result in the loss of 90 permanent jobs and the withdrawal of the Vizzavona. The CGT also accused shareholders of an “illicit agreement” with CMA CGM and demanded guaranteed financing for public service delegation routes until 2030.

The strike caused immediate disruptions to maritime and air travel in France. Corsica Linea canceled all crossings between Marseille and Corsica, as well as routes to Algiers. Simultaneously, public sector strikes impacted aviation, leading the Direction générale de l'Aviation civile to request flight reductions at several airports, including a 5% reduction at Paris-Charles de Gaulle and a 25% reduction at Marseille-Provence.

In addition to the maritime dispute at the Port of Bastia, where STC union members are protesting the use of external crews and the decommissioning of ships this winter, the aviation sector faces further disruption. Pilots at Air Corsica, represented by the SNPL and SPAC unions, have issued a strike notice for the period of October 9 to October 16, 2026. The pilots are protesting management proposals regarding seniority-based pay and inflation, noting that previous wage freezes and reduced leave were accepted to support the company but current terms remain unacceptable.