Air Canada to cancel flights ahead of potential strike

Air Canada will start cancelling flights on Thursday after the union representing its flight attendants issued a 72-hour strike notice, raising the risk of major travel disruptions during peak summer season.

The Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE), representing 10,000 flight attendants, announced the strike notice early Wednesday, citing a breakdown in contract talks. The union accused the airline of refusing to address key demands, including higher wages and pay for unpaid work such as boarding and airport wait times.

In response, the airline issued its own 72-hour lockout notice, saying it had offered a 38% increase in total compensation over four years — including a 25% raise in the first year — but that CUPE’s counteroffer sought “exorbitant increases.” The union rejected binding third-party arbitration.

The strike is set to begin at 01:00 EST (05:00 GMT) on Saturday. Air Canada said it will gradually suspend flights starting Thursday, with more cancellations Friday, and a “complete cessation of flying” on Saturday. The shutdown could impact 130,000 daily passengers, including 25,000 Canadians.

Air Canada Express services, which handle about 20% of the carrier’s daily customers, will continue operating. The airline has arranged for refunds and alternative travel through other carriers, though options may be limited or delayed.

Toronto Pearson International Airport and Vancouver International Airport are monitoring the situation and advising travellers to check directly with Air Canada for updates.

CUPE said 99.7% of its members had earlier voted in favour of a strike, accusing Air Canada of avoiding fair bargaining by pushing for government-directed arbitration.