Originally Posted by Dirtdiver

Check the non-hub cities...CVG/PIT/PHL/ORD(winter). They operate less than daily, but the loads can be spotty and they don't have the last minute HK problem the hub cities have.

Choose wisely the morning of your flight, because you're dealing with AF to check in. To swap to a different flight you will most likely have to go back out to the main check in area, gate agent can't/won't do it.

Good news is that there are several inexpensive but nice hotels either attached to CDG or with a free shuttle.