Air Canada begins canceling flights ahead of possible strike by its flight attendants

Air Canada has started to cancel flights in anticipation of a potential strike by its flight attendants, which could affect a large number of travelers. The airline stated that nearly 300 flight attendants did not report to work on Thursday night, leading to additional cancellations. As a result, Air Canada is gradually suspending its operations, with all flights set to be paused by early Saturday morning. This suspension is expected to last for at least a week to ensure an orderly restart.

The airline’s Chief Operations Officer, Mark Nasr, announced that the first wave of cancellations will impact long-haul overseas flights departing on Thursday night, affecting over 100,000 customers by Friday evening. By Saturday morning, all flights will be grounded, impacting about 25,000 Canadians abroad daily. Air Canada estimates that 500 flights will be canceled by the end of Friday.

The union representing approximately 10,000 Air Canada flight attendants issued a 72-hour strike notice, with the strike scheduled to begin on Saturday if a resolution is not reached. In response, the airline issued a lockout notice. Customers whose flights are affected by the cancellations will be eligible for a full refund, and alternative travel options will be provided by other carriers.

Air Canada CEO Michael Rousseau expressed regret over the disruption that the potential strike may cause to customers, stakeholders, and communities. The impasse in contract negotiations between the airline and the union revolves around issues such as wages and unpaid labor. Despite Air Canada offering a 38% increase in total pay over four years and other benefits, the union remains unsatisfied. The union rejected the airline’s proposal for binding arbitration and is seeking a negotiated deal that its members can vote on.

As the situation unfolds, Air Canada is working to minimize the impact on travelers and ensure the safety and well-being of its employees. Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story.