A nationwide rail strike will take place across France on Thursday, 5 November 2026, amid expectations of 500,000 to 700,000 demonstrators outside Paris, according to France’s intelligence service. The general strike, called by trade unions, is forecast to cause widespread disruption to SNCF’s rail network.
Rail and Transport Service Disruptions in France
The national rail operator SNCF predicts mostly minor disturbances on its high-speed TGV services, while regional rail services including Intercités, TER, Île-de-France trains, and the RER network will undergo significant disruptions. Several train stations in Paris and across the Île-de-France region will be closed, and commuter Transilien train services will also be affected.
The Paris
metro network is expected to operate normally at stations that remain open, while buses and trams in the Île-de-France will maintain usual service levels. Passengers are urged by SNCF to verify train operations before traveling, as cancellations and delays are likely.
Official Advisories and Flight Operations
Eurostar anticipates running a near-normal schedule on 5 November but recommends passengers monitor live updates on its services, especially those connecting to France. SNCF stated, “Before you travel, please check that your train is running.” Ticket holders for canceled TGV or Intercités trains will be contacted directly and can exchange or refund tickets without charges.
France’s civil aviation authority
DGAC confirmed no mandatory changes to airline flight programs due to the strike. Local disruptions to flights may occur independently, prompting passengers to liaise with their airlines. French tourism outlet Tourmag has not requested flight schedule adjustments for this event.
The UK Foreign Office issued a travel advisory in light of ongoing demonstrations in France since 22 October. It warned, “There is an increased likelihood of demonstrations, political gatherings and marches taking place across France, sometimes at short notice,” advising travelers to avoid large crowds and abide by local authority instructions. Public safety measures, including area-specific curfews, may affect local
transport services.
Background on Strike and Unrest in France
The strike follows three consecutive weekends of unrest triggered by concerns over school conditions and rising living costs. Protests in October escalated into riots with incidents of looting, property damage, and arson reported in several cities. The nationwide rail strike and mass protests scheduled for 5 November continue this pattern of widespread labor and social unrest.
