Air France Strike Over; Travel Agents Sue Over Broken Contracts

Paris, France (AHN) - A five-day strike is over and workers at Air France have returned to their jobs. However, the airline now faces demands from tour operators, angry over canceled flights and endless baggage lines.

The National Union of Travel Agents (SNAV) is claiming financial compensation from the carrier for damages endured by clients who had to wait endlessly at the airport, or were forced to fly from nearby airports in Brussels and Frankfurt after Air France flights in Paris were sold out.

The travel agents are supported by a French law that states clients have the right to claim the value of any cent paid until fulfillment of contract. The law applies between tour operator and client, and tour operator with supplier, in this case, Air France.

According to SNAV Chairman Georges Colson, "the tourist was taken hostage." He added that the conflict damaged the image of France as a country of destination and of Air France who were clearly surprised at the size of the strike.

Earlier, Air France spokeswoman admitted "significant" losses due to the strike. "In order to count the costs, it will first be necessary to factor in the lack of revenues due to reimbursement" she said.

The industrial action which started on October 25 was conducted by the cabin crew of the nation's flag carrier to urge management for review of wage and working conditions.

Union representatives said shift to normal traffic will be gradual.