Air Canada suspended most of its operations on Saturday after more than 10,000 flight attendants went on strike, disrupting travel for tens of thousands of passengers during the busy summer season.
The
strike began early Saturday morning after the union and airline failed to reach a deal. The Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE), representing the flight attendants, confirmed the work stoppage on social media. This is the first strike by Air Canada flight attendants since 1985.
The dispute centres on wages and working conditions. Flight attendants are currently paid only when the plane is moving. The union demands compensation for time spent on the ground between flights and while helping passengers board.
Air Canada had offered a 38% total pay increase over four years, including a 25% raise in the first year, but the union says this offer falls short.
Hundreds of striking employees formed picket lines outside major Canadian airports, including Toronto Pearson, Montreal, Calgary, and Vancouver.
The airline said it suspended the majority of its 700 daily flights, affecting about 130,000 passengers each day. Flights operated by regional affiliates like Air Canada Jazz and PAL Airlines continued as usual.
The strike comes amid a bitter contract fight. The union rejected Air Canada’s request for government-imposed arbitration, which would have removed their right to strike and allowed a third party to set contract terms.
Air Canada has urged affected passengers not to travel unless they have confirmed tickets on other airlines. The airline is also asking the Canadian government to intervene, but the union insists on a negotiated settlement.
Canada’s Jobs Minister Patty Hajdu has urged both sides to return to talks. The Canada Labour Code allows the government to impose binding arbitration if needed to protect the economy.
Analysts warn the strike could damage Air Canada’s finances in its most critical quarter. They urge both sides to find a peaceful resolution to avoid prolonged disruption.
The strike not only affects Canadian travellers but also has wider implications, as Air Canada is the busiest foreign airline serving the US market by scheduled flights.
(With inputs from agencies)
