Air Canada Flight Attendants Strike Continues Amid Negotiations

Flight attendants at Air Canada remain on strike as negotiations resume with the airline, according to the Air Canada component of the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE). The strike has significantly disrupted operations, grounding numerous flights for several days. In a statement released on August 18, 2025, CUPE confirmed that discussions began on Monday evening with the assistance of mediator William Kaplan in Toronto.

The union’s online update to its members indicated that while talks have commenced, the strike is still ongoing. This development follows a day of heightened tensions, as Air Canada’s Chief Operating Officer had previously stated that flight attendants must return to work before meaningful negotiations could continue. In contrast, the union emphasized that it would not end its strike until a fair agreement is reached at the bargaining table.

Background of the Dispute

Earlier in the week, the conflict escalated when union officials defied an order from the Canada Industrial Relations Board to resume work. This order was issued after the federal government invoked Section 107 of the Labour Code to mandate binding arbitration between the two parties. Despite this, the union maintained its position, arguing that the strike would persist until satisfactory terms were negotiated.

In response to the ongoing strike, Air Canada announced on Monday that it would extend the cancellation of all Air Canada and Air Canada Rouge flights through 16:00 ET on Tuesday. This decision underscores the significant impact of the strike on air travel, affecting countless passengers and raising concerns about operational stability.

The situation continues to unfold as both sides seek to resolve the dispute. The union’s commitment to its demands reflects broader issues within the industry, as labor negotiations become increasingly contentious amid evolving work conditions and employee expectations.

The outcome of these negotiations will be critical not only for the flight attendants but also for Air Canada’s operational future. As discussions progress, stakeholders and the public will be closely watching for updates on the strike’s resolution and its implications for air travel in Canada.