Climate change is no longer a distant threat; it's actively impacting various sectors, including aviation. Rising sea levels and increasingly frequent heatwaves are already causing significant problems for airports around the world. At the same time, global warming is exacerbating the risk of turbulence, particularly over the North Atlantic.
Turbulence on the Rise
The increase in turbulence poses a serious threat to flight safety. Stronger and more frequent clear-air turbulence, which is difficult to detect, can lead to injuries and even accidents. Pilots are increasingly having to navigate unpredictable weather patterns, adding to the complexity of air travel. The North Atlantic route, a major artery for international flights, is particularly vulnerable.
"We're seeing more and more extreme weather events, and aviation needs to adapt to this new reality," says a spokesperson for the International Air Transport Association (IATA).
Aviation isn't the only sector facing change. In other business news, Parisian gaming clubs are preparing to reopen after a period of forced closure due to government censorship. The closure, which began on January 1st, impacted nearly 1,200 employees. These establishments are set to resume operations around February 28th or March 1st, still operating under an experimental status. This reopening offers a glimmer of hope for the industry and its workforce.
SNCF's Search for a New Leader
Meanwhile, in the transportation sector, France's national railway company, SNCF, is preparing for a change in leadership. Jean-Pierre Farandou, the outgoing CEO, is set to be replaced in the spring. Trade unions are expressing concerns that the executive's choice might lean towards a candidate with a purely "economic" profile, potentially neglecting the company's rich history and specificities. The unions are advocating for a leader who understands the nuances of the railway industry and prioritizes its long-term sustainability.
The search for a new CEO at SNCF highlights the tension between economic efficiency and preserving the unique character of a national institution. The decision will have a significant impact on the future of the railway system and its employees.
Finally, a list of shortage occupations by region is undergoing final consultation with social partners on February 28th, before its publication in early March. Unions and employers have expressed reservations about "gaps in the system," indicating potential mismatches between the listed occupations and actual labor market needs.