On arrival at Toronto Pearson International Airport, Captain Paul Albers was greeted by handshakes and kind words from nearly all customers on board his last flight, AC857 from London Heathrow. Children requested and had their photos taken with Captain Albers while others asked about his 40-year career. There was no shortage of anecdotes.

Earlier on that Sept. 18, 2019 flight, the First Officer, Andre Anders, announced to customers on board the Boeing 787 Dreamliner that the flight was a special one. In a heart-felt message, he said that it was his brother’s final flight as an Air Canada Captain. First Officer Albers said he fought back tears while others shared in the emotional moment.

“I have known Paul and Andre for 30 years. For a pilot, the last flight they operate before retirement is always memorable as it marks a career milestone, and we’re pleased Paul’s final flight as an Air Canada Captain was truly a special family event.  I congratulate Paul on his long and successful Air Canada career and wish him the very best in his retirement,” said Captain Murray Strom, Vice President, Flight Operations at Air Canada.

CTV featured Captain Anders’ last flight with his brother on national television.