Traffic chaos at Paris airport leaves thousands stranded, French authorities warn of further delays

ORLY (France), May 19 — A breakdown in air traffic control at Paris-Orly Airport led to the cancellation and delay of hundreds of flights, with the French aviation authority warning that disruptions are expected to continue today.

The incident occurred on Sunday, impacting thousands of passengers, many of whom were already seated on planes at France’s second-largest airport when flights were abruptly canceled.

Officials reported that around 130 flights to and from Orly were canceled on Sunday due to the control tower malfunction.

By late Sunday, the issue remained unresolved, prompting the French civil aviation authority (DGAC) to request airlines reduce their flight schedules by 15 percent on Monday, warning that delays are likely.

“The situation is improving but still requires traffic regulation,” the DGAC said.

The cause was attributed to an air traffic control “malfunction,” with an airport source describing it as a “radar failure.”

Flights to destinations across Europe, North Africa, and within France were affected, leading to long queues at terminals as passengers scrambled for alternative travel options.

“We were on the plane, all seated and strapped in, ready to depart when they told us to disembark and collect our bags... then the ordeal began,” said Azgal Abichou, a 63-year-old business owner.

“The only available flight costs 300 euros—and there’s only one seat left, but there are two of us and we’re not even sure the flight will take off,” added Romane Penault, a 22-year-old student. “So for now, we’re heading home.”

Agnes Zilouri, 46, struggled to find seats for her 86-year-old mother and 6-year-old son. The family was supposed to fly to Oujda, Morocco, on Sunday evening for a funeral.

“The flight is canceled. Luckily, I’m here with my mother,” she said.

Last year, Orly Airport handled around 33 million passengers, roughly half the volume of Paris Charles de Gaulle International Airport. — AFP