Air Canada Strike Grounds Flights, 130,000 Passengers Affected

UPDATE: Air Canada flight attendants launched a strike at 12:58 a.m. ET Saturday, leaving an estimated 130,000 passengers stranded as flights are suspended nationwide. The strike follows a breakdown in negotiations between Air Canada and the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE), prompting immediate disruption across major airports.

As tensions rise, protestors have gathered at Pearson Airport and various locations including Montreal, Calgary, and Halifax, demanding fair compensation and improved working conditions. This urgent situation is forcing travelers to scramble for alternatives as Air Canada suspends all operations for both Air Canada and Air Canada Rouge flights.

The union had issued a 72-hour strike notice earlier this week, leading Air Canada to anticipate the stoppage by cancelling approximately 500 flights before the strike officially began. Picket lines are now firmly established in cities such as Richmond, B.C., Winnipeg, and Ottawa, causing widespread concern among travelers.

Passenger rights advocates stress the importance of understanding travelers’ rights during this disruption. Gabor Lukacs, president of Air Passenger Rights, warns travelers against rushing to accept refunds. “A refund can be one way for an airline to wash their hands of their obligation to rebook you on another flight,” he explained. Under Canada’s Air Passenger Protection Regulations, airlines are required to rebook passengers on the next available flight, regardless of the carrier.

Air Canada reassured customers that those whose flights are canceled will be notified and eligible for a full refund. However, many travelers are left feeling uncertain about their next steps. The public sentiment appears to favor flight attendants, with a recent poll showing that 88 percent of Canadians believe workers should be compensated for all duties, and 80 percent support wage increases aligned with rising living costs.

The airline’s operational halt poses a significant challenge for travelers, especially those stuck abroad or with essential plans. As the strike continues, many are left wondering about their next moves and their rights as consumers.

What’s Next? With the strike still ongoing, travelers are advised to stay updated on the situation and consider their rebooking options carefully. Air Canada must adhere to regulations that ensure passengers are accommodated, even on competing airlines.

Has your Air Canada flight been canceled? Are you among the many affected by this strike? Share your experience by emailing us at [email protected]. Your story could be featured in future coverage as we bring you the latest developments on this unfolding crisis.