Air Canada has suspended its flight resumption plans after flight attendants continued strike action despite a government-mandated return-to-work order, disrupting travel plans for thousands of passengers. The airline canceled 240 flights scheduled from Sunday afternoon, with full operations now expected to resume Monday evening.
The Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE), representing 8,500 flight attendants, rejected an arbitration directive from the Canadian Industrial Relations Board on Sunday. Air Canada called the union's actions "illegal" in a statement, citing eight months of failed negotiations over pay increases, pension improvements, and crew rest requirements.
Canadian Minister of Jobs and Families Patty Hajdu invoked emergency labor provisions Saturday to force arbitration, stating: "This prolonged work stoppage risks causing significant harm to workers and Canadians who rely on air transportation." The dispute highlights growing labor tensions in North America's aviation sector as airlines navigate post-pandemic recovery.
With Air Canada and subsidiary Air Canada Rouge typically operating 700 daily flights, the disruption comes during peak summer travel season. Analysts warn prolonged strikes could impact regional tourism and business connectivity across Asia-Pacific routes served by the Star Alliance member.
