The strike, initiated by the CGT-Cheminots and SUD-Rail unions, aims to secure higher wages and improved scheduling practices.

Fanichet stated that while discussions have occurred, no further wage increases will be granted beyond the already implemented 2.2% average raise for 2025, which he believes is sufficient.

To accommodate passengers concerned about potential disruptions, all tickets for TGV Inoui and Ouigo services are exchangeable and refundable without fees for travel from May 5 to May 11.

Detailed strike timetables will be provided 48 hours in advance, with expectations that TGV InOui and Ouigo services will operate normally throughout the week.

Christophe Fanichet, the CEO of SNCF Voyageurs, reassured passengers that train services will not come to a complete halt during the strike starting May 5, 2025.

Rail unions representing train drivers, conductors, and technicians are aiming for maximum disruption during the strike, coinciding with the VE Day holiday weekend.

Regions expected to experience disruptions include Bourgogne-Franche-Comté, Centre-Val de Loire, Hauts-de-France, Normandie, Nouvelle-Aquitaine, Occitanie, and Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur, particularly affecting local TER services.

In Île-de-France, only one train will operate out of two on RER lines B and C, and on Transilien lines N, U, and V, leading to significant disruptions.

The influential Collectif national ASCT (CNA) of controllers has joined the strike call, further heightening the potential impact during this busy travel period.

Fanichet expressed concern over a decrease in reservations for the May 8 holiday weekend, warning that ongoing strikes could push customers to alternative transport options.

In an effort to improve transparency, the company will now provide TGV crew schedules six months in advance instead of three.

Fanichet warned that the ongoing strike could drive customers to seek alternative transportation methods, potentially harming SNCF's customer base.