Air Canada crews in some European cities sent to alternative locations due to civil unrest

Air Canada crews who landed in several European cities last week were relocated to secondary hotel locations to avoid potential disruption to crew rest amid civil unrest.

The affected cities include Paris, Nice, Lyon, Nantes and Milan, with the relays occurring between October 23 and 25, according to sources briefed on the situation.

Air Canada and its pilots’ union noted that safety is the primary consideration, and that relocations are part of standard industry practice when there is a potential safety concern or disruption to rest. Crews on layover are advised to follow government travel advisories.

Air Canada did not confirm specific relocation details, but said the airline monitors events worldwide, follows government guidance, and conducts security assessments in consultation with industry partners. When warranted, crew accommodations may be moved closer to the airport to maintain on-time operations to Canada.

Protests linked to broader cost-of-living and schooling concerns spread across several European countries, with large demonstrations in France and support spreading to Italy, Spain, and other nations over the period in question.