**Air Canada Cancels Flights Amid Potential Flight Attendant Strike**
Air Canada has begun cancelling flights as of Thursday, anticipating a possible work stoppage by its flight attendants, which could significantly disrupt travel for hundreds of thousands of passengers. The union representing approximately 10,000 flight attendants issued a 72-hour strike notice on Wednesday, leading the airline to announce a lockout and initiate a gradual suspension of its operations.
**Impact on Travelers**
Mark Nasr, Air Canada’s Chief Operations Officer, confirmed that the airline is implementing a phased suspension of both Air Canada and Air Canada Rouge operations, with all flights expected to be halted by Saturday morning. This gradual shutdown aims to ensure an orderly restart, which Nasr indicated could take up to a week under optimal conditions. The initial cancellations, affecting several dozen flights, will primarily impact long-haul international flights scheduled to depart Thursday night. “By tomorrow evening, we anticipate cancelling flights that will affect over 100,000 customers,” Nasr stated. “By 1 AM on Saturday, we will be completely grounded.”
A complete shutdown of Canada’s largest airline could impact around 130,000 individuals daily, including 25,000 Canadians currently abroad who may find themselves stranded. By the end of Friday, approximately 500 flights are projected to be cancelled. Passengers whose flights are cancelled will be eligible for full refunds, and the airline is coordinating with other Canadian and international carriers to provide alternative travel options.
**Underlying Issues in the Dispute**
The union has highlighted key issues in the negotiations, including concerns over “poverty wages” and unpaid labor during times when planes are not in the air. Flight attendants have voiced their frustrations at a recent news conference, displaying signs that read “unpaid work won’t fly” and “Poverty wages=Uncanadian.”
Air Canada’s head of human resources, Arielle Meloul-Wechsler, noted that the company’s latest proposal includes a 38% increase in total compensation, encompassing benefits and pensions, over a four-year period. However, the union has rejected the airline’s suggestion to enter binding arbitration, preferring to negotiate a deal that its members can vote on. Natasha Stea, a union representative for flight attendants in Montreal, expressed concerns that the airline may be relying on government intervention. She emphasized the union’s desire for a fair and equitable contract.
Federal Jobs Minister Patty Hajdu has urged both parties to reach an independent agreement and has requested the union to respond to the airline’s arbitration proposal.
**Conclusion**
As negotiations continue, the potential strike by Air Canada flight attendants poses a significant threat to travel plans for many. With hundreds of flights already cancelled and more expected, travelers are advised to stay informed about their flight status and explore alternative arrangements.
**FAQ**
**What should passengers do if their Air Canada flight is cancelled?**
Passengers whose flights are cancelled are eligible for a full refund and should check with Air Canada for alternative travel options with other carriers.
