Air Canada has begun cancelling flights starting Thursday, escalating into a full suspension by Saturday, as the union representing its flight attendants issued a 72-hour strike notice. In response, the airline issued a lockout notice, heading toward a shutdown affecting both Air Canada and Air Canada Rouge. This dispute follows months of breakdown in talks over wages, work hours, and job conditions.
The Canadian Chamber of Commerce emphasized the vital role of stable air travel in Canada’s economy, especially for cargo—like pharmaceuticals and export goods—and called for both sides to negotiate in good faith. The CFIB warned small businesses are particularly vulnerable to an economic downturn resulting from travel disruptions and urged federal intervention if a deal can’t be reached.
Air Canada is offering full refunds and alternate routing where possible. Flights to and from major airports could be heavily disrupted, especially for approximately 130,000 daily passengers. Regional carriers like Jazz and PAL will continue operating, covering a fraction of services. With one of the country’s biggest aviation stakeholders at risk, pressure is mounting for a last-minute resolution before the weekend strike.
