2025-05-19T02:28:51Z

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ORLY, France: A significant breakdown in air traffic control at Paris-Orly airport has resulted in the unexpected cancellation and delay of hundreds of flights, leading to widespread disruption for travelers. The situation, which spiraled out of control on Sunday, May 19, has left thousands of passengers stranded, some even remaining on planes for prolonged periods as flights were called off.

The air traffic control malfunction was first reported on Sunday morning and quickly escalated, affecting approximately 130 flights both arriving and departing from Orly, which is the second-largest airport in Paris. The impact of this breakdown was immediate and profound, leaving many passengers bewildered and frustrated as they navigated the chaotic scene.

As the day wore on, the French civil aviation authority, known as DGAC, confirmed that the issue had not been resolved by late Sunday evening. In response to the ongoing crisis, the DGAC issued a directive requesting airlines to reduce their flight schedules by 15 percent for Monday. They also warned travelers to anticipate further delays as the situation was still precarious, albeit showing signs of gradual improvement.

The DGAC attributed the breakdown to a malfunction within the air traffic control system, specifically citing a radar failure as the primary issue that contributed to the disruption. This type of technical failure, particularly in a busy airport like Orly, can lead to significant operational challenges, as air traffic controllers rely heavily on accurate radar information to manage the flow of aircraft safely and efficiently.

In light of the unfolding chaos, airport officials have been working diligently to restore normal operations while ensuring passenger safety and communication. Passengers are encouraged to stay updated with their airline for the latest flight information and to allow extra time for travel as the backlog of flights begins to clear.

This incident underlines the vulnerability of modern air travel systems to technical failures, especially during peak travel times. With summer vacations approaching in the coming months, the authorities will need to address these vulnerabilities promptly to prevent similar occurrences in the future.