Air France: a major socio-economic driver for the Paris Region and its inhabitants

On November 17, Air France organized a seminar on its policy in favor of employment, youth opportunities and localities. This was an opportunity to bring together partner organizations and local representatives, and to share the many actions undertaken by Air France to boost the regional economy, create jobs and reinforce the Company's social commitments. 

The largest private employer in the Ile-de-France region, with strong historical roots in the area 

Through its three main activities – passenger transport, cargo transport and aircraft maintenance – the Air France Group generates over 37,000 direct jobs in the region, particularly around Roissy-Charles de Gaulle and Orly airports. While 50% of Air France's sales are generated abroad, over 90% of its employees are based in France. 

In 2019, Air France's activities accounted for over 3% of the region's GDP, with €1.8 billion in purchases and €1.6 billion in tax revenues.  

During the morning's discussions, Air France presented its economic impact on the Île-de-France region, the Company's historic stronghold since its creation 90 years ago. 
 

An opportunity-generating ecosystem for Paris region inhabitants, whatever their background 
Recruiting and training local people – of all ages, backgrounds, and levels of experience – is a priority at Air France. To achieve this, the Company has launched a number of initiatives to promote the job opportunities on offer, and also maintains close relations with a network of partner organizations and companies. 

For example, the Association pour la Formation aux Métiers de l'Aérien (l’AFMAÉ) and the Jérémy organization, created through Air France's initiatives, offer jobseekers training and integration courses in the aeronautical sector. The Training Center is located in Bonneuil-en-France and Toussus-le-Noble, which are both located in the Paris region. 

The company also participated in the creation of Airemploi, an orientation and training center for all aircraft-related professions. With a particular focus on providing opportunities for young people, Air France is committed to recruiting apprentices at different levels and across a range of different professions. 

In addition, Sodesi (Société pour le Développement de l'Emploi dans les Services et l'Industrie) – a 100% Air France subsidiary – is responsible for the Company's revitalization plans. Specializing in individual and collective assistance, it supports local economic initiatives that create jobs. 

Air France is also committed to supporting gender equality in the aviation industry. The Company promotes gender diversity and fights against stereotypes – still too prevalent in the sector's professions – through the "Féminisons les métiers de l'aéronautique et du spatial" Charter and the "Elles bougent" association. 

Thousands of job opportunities to be filled 
Air France’s Industrial, Operations and Cabin Crew departments – accompanied by the recruitment team – were on hand to remind everyone that Air France is actively hiring for a wide range of fields: cabin crew, aircraft mechanics, pilots, IT engineers, business analysts, revenue management experts... all vacancies are available on the Air France recruitment website. With an eye on the Paris 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games, the company also ails to reinforce its ranks by recruiting a large number of ground staff. 

Overall, in 2023, nearly 2,000 people will have joined Air France – including more than 400 pilots, 350 mechanics, 260 managers, and all on permanent work contracts. This recruitment drive will continue into 2024 and beyond.