French commuters faced transport chaos as rail and energy workers stage a 24-hour strike.
The action, in defence of historic pensions privileges, puts the reform plans of the country's president, Nicolas Sarkozy, to the test.
Nationwide rail traffic was at a near standstill this morning with just 46 high-speed trains running out of the normal 700, the state rail company said. Paris metro, bus and regional commuter networks operated a skeleton service.
The civil air authority warned that some Paris flights could experience delays in the morning if staff have problems getting to work. Rail links into the capital from its two airports were also down.
Travellers were urged to postpone their journeys and many Paris commuters made arrangements to take the day off or work from home.
The strike, which began yesterday evening, came as France prepared to host Saturday's final of the Rugby World Cup, with thousands of British and South African fans expected in Paris.
Street demonstrations were planned in some 60 towns and cities, as trade unions try to force Mr Sarkozy to drop plans to reform France’s so-called 'special' pension systems enjoyed by 1.6m rail, energy and other workers.
Invoking social equity, the president has begun moves to lengthen contribution periods for these workers from 37.5 years to 40, closer in line with other public and private sector.
