Since the early hours of the morning, Air Canada has fully suspended all flights after more than 10,000 cabin crew members, represented by the CUPE union, went on strike following failed negotiations over a new collective agreement. According to Reuters, this is the company’s most significant strike since 1985. Around 700 daily flights have been halted, affecting over 100,000 passengers, with estimates reaching up to 130,000 passengers per day, depending on the source.
CUPE rejected Air Canada’s offer of a total 38% pay increase over four years, including 25% in the first year, calling it insufficient. Key issues remain unpaid hours for ground duties, boarding and disembarkation, as well as waiting periods before and between flights.
The union states that as many as 85% of flight attendants live on the edge of poverty despite full-time workloads, particularly in costly cities such as Vancouver and Toronto. Cabin crew report working an average of 35 hours per month without pay, including one hour before boarding for safety checks, as well as time spent during delays and passenger disembarkation.
Air Canada has asked the Canadian government to implement binding arbitration under the Labour Code, arguing that it would ensure business continuity. However, the union opposes this, insisting on negotiations and the right to strike, reports the Associated Press.
Chief Operating Officer Michael Rousseau warned that a return to normal operations could take up to a week after the dispute is resolved, while the Canadian government has yet to decide whether to intervene, notes Time.
In a press release, Air Canada stated that due to the cabin crew strike, which began on August 16 at 1 a.m., it had already been gradually reducing flights in previous days to ensure the safe wind-down of its complex operations. Passengers who purchased tickets or used Aeroplan points by August 14 are eligible for a free rebooking to another flight between August 21 and September 12, while those with non-refundable fares may request a refund in the form of an AC Wallet credit or a Future Travel Credit. Passengers affected by cancellations on August 16 and 17 are entitled to a full refund, while Air Canada Express flights operated by Jazz and PAL continue to operate as scheduled. The company adds that, where possible, passengers will be rebooked with other airlines, but capacity remains limited due to the peak summer season.
