A nationwide rail strike will take place across France on Thursday, November 5, 2026, impacting SNCF train services including TGV high-speed, TER regional, Intercités long-distance trains, and RER commuter lines around Paris.
Rail Unions Call Strike Over Pay and Working Conditions
The industrial action is organized by France’s four main railway unions: CGT-Cheminots, UNSA-Ferroviaire, SUD-Rail, and CFDT-Cheminots. These unions demand renewed negotiations on wages, employment levels, working conditions, and the future structure of the railway sector. The strike covers the entire national network, with disruptions varying by region and operator.
SNCF Forecasts Limited TGV Disruption but Major Impact on Regional and Commuter Services
SNCF issued an initial forecast on November 3, 2026, indicating that TGV services will experience only limited disruption during
the strike. By contrast, more severe impacts are expected on Intercités long-distance trains, TER regional services, and suburban commuter networks including Transilien around Paris.
Paris Area Commuter Lines, Notably RER B, to See Disruptions
Passenger services on RER lines B, C, D, and E in the Île-de-France region will face interruptions on November 5. RER A, operated by RATP, is expected to maintain normal service. Similarly, the Paris Metro, tramway, and RATP bus networks are forecast to run on their usual schedules initially. RER B disruption is particularly significant due to its role linking central Paris to Charles de Gaulle Airport, potentially complicating airport transfers.
Île-de-France Mobilités has advised passengers
with flexible travel plans or work options to consider postponing journeys or working remotely on the strike day.
Regional Authorities Confirm TER Disruption; Passengers Urged to Check Schedules
Several regional transport authorities have confirmed disturbances on TER lines, including TER Pays de la Loire. Regional operators advise passengers to consult official information channels and SNCF Connect for the latest train schedules and cancellations. Travelers using rail links between Paris and cities such as Lyon, Marseille, Bordeaux, Lille, and Nantes should not expect all trains to operate normally.
Detailed Timetables to Be Released November 4; Civil Aviation Strike Also Planned
SNCF plans to publish detailed line-by-line impact schedules on November 4 to provide clarity for passengers. Travelers are encouraged to verify their specific
train numbers and departure times before traveling. While the strike will cause rail service delays and cancellations, flights are expected to remain unaffected despite simultaneous industrial action in France’s civil aviation sector on November 5. Passengers connecting to airports by rail should allow extra time and confirm airline departures to mitigate transfer risks.
