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Dozens of flights have already been cancelled and thousands of holidaymakers left in limbo as French air traffic controllers stage a six-day walkout.

The industrial action, which started today and will last until the end of Sunday, has led to budget carriers Ryanair and easyJet axing more than 50 services.

British Airways has also cancelled three flights from Heathrow to the French cities of Lyon, Marseille and Toulouse.

Walkout: The six-day strike has grounded more than 50 easyJet and Ryanair flights with further chaos expected

However, easyJet has not had to cancel as many flights as first feared. The airline expected to axe up to 50 per cent of flights over the six days, but has so far only cancelled 25 per cent.

And none of the 20-plus services axed by Ryanair or the 32 by easyJet are flights that connect with the UK.

EasyJet said some UK-originating flights might still be affected, while Ryanair also warned passengers that the strike could affect flights overflying France, adding: 'We expect further flight delays and cancellations.'

EasyJet said: 'We are disappointed at this unnecessary strike action which has the potential to cause considerable disruption and cancellations for passengers and airlines across Europe.

Tourists have been told to expect long delays at every French airport, including Charles de Gaulles, pictured, in Paris as the entire air system will be affected by the walk-outs

'Despite the fact that this disruption is beyond easyJet's control we will do everything possible to minimise the inconvenience to our customers. We will proactively provide advice for our passengers through our website, text messages and flight tracker tool.'

BA said: 'Due to industrial action by air traffic controllers in France we have been forced to cancel a small number of flights on Tuesday and are expecting knock-on delays to some other short-haul services.

'We will look to use larger aircraft where we can to help affected customers on cancelled flights so they can rebook free of charge to alternative flights.

'We would urge customers to keep checking our website during the week for the very latest information about their specific flights.'

The Socialist government of Francois Hollande, pictured, insists that the cuts are necessary to comply with European Commission plans to reduce air navigation costs

Which? executive director Richard Lloyd said: 'Check with your airline before travelling to find out if you'll be affected by the French air strike action.

'If you are affected, visit the Which? Consumer Rights website and find out your rights because if your flight is delayed due to a strike, the airline may have an obligation to offer you assistance.'

Air traffic controllers are just one of a host of sectors staging industrial action and crippling the tourism industry in France.

Travellers hoping to take alternative rail routes will face further delays thanks to a ten-day rail protest.

French retail workers are also set to strike in protest at the government's decision to introduce Sunday opening hours to boost tourism.

This will mean that famous Paris department stores including Galeries Lafayette and Printemps will be closed for those who do make it across the Channel.