Chaos at Canadian Airports as Air Canada Strike Begins
Over 10,000 Flight Attendants Walk Off Job â
If you’re scheduled to fly with Air Canada between August 15 and 21, 2025, chances are you’ve already encountered delays or cancellations due to the ongoing cabin crew strike. The action, led by the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE), officially began in the early hours of Saturday, August 16, after failed negotiations over pay and working conditions.
With more than 10,000 flight attendants off duty, the airline has been forced to cancel hundreds of flights daily, leaving tens of thousands of travelers stranded across Canada, the U.S., and international destinations.
This is shaping up to be one of the most significant labour disruptions in Canadian aviation in decades. So whatâs really going on â and more importantly, how can affected passengers rebook, request refunds, and stay informed during this turbulent period?
What Is the Air Canada Strike About?
The ongoing strike at Air Canada, which began on August 16, 2025, stems from a breakdown in negotiations between the airline and its cabin crew, represented by the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE). More than 10,000 flight attendants have walked off the job, demanding fair pay and recognition for the duties they perform on the ground.
Core Issues Behind the Dispute
- Unpaid Ground Duties: Flight attendants are not compensated for time spent boarding passengers, performing safety checks, or assisting during deplaning. Their pay begins only when the aircraft starts moving, leaving many with hours of unpaid labor each week.
- Low Effective Wages: Entry-level crew members report that, when all tasks are considered, their hourly earnings fall below Canadaâs minimum wage. This has raised concerns about the sustainability of the profession.
- Rejected Contract Offer: Air Canada proposed a four-year deal that included a 38% increase in total compensation and adjustments to ground duty pay. CUPE rejected the offer, stating it failed to address the core issues and lacked transparency.
- Government Arbitration Order: In an effort to end the strike, Canadaâs Labour Minister invoked a legal directive for binding arbitration. CUPE refused, arguing that this bypasses their right to negotiate directly and sets a dangerous precedent.
Why This Strike Matters
This labor action goes beyond salary figures. It highlights a growing demand for respect, transparency, and fair treatment in the aviation industry. CUPE has positioned the strike as a stand against systemic undervaluation of essential frontline workers.
How Long Could the Air Canada Strike Last?
As of August 18, 2025, there is no confirmed end date for the Air Canada cabin crew strike. The walkout began at 12:58 a.m. ET on Saturday, August 16, after contract negotiations between Air Canada and CUPE broke down. While the federal government has since ordered binding arbitration under Section 107 of the Canada Labour Code, the union has refused to comply, prolonging the disruption.
What Determines the Duration?
- Government Pressure: Ottawa has demanded that both parties return to work, but CUPE continues to defy the order, arguing that arbitration undermines their right to negotiate.
- Operational Complexity: Even if a deal is reached, Air Canada estimates it could take up to a week to fully resume operations due to aircraft and crew being out of position.
- Union Resistance: CUPE has called for national demonstrations and insists that the strike will continue until a fair agreement is reached.
What to Expect This Week?
- August 18â21: Most Air Canada and Air Canada Rouge flights remain suspended.
- August 21âSeptember 12: Passengers with tickets issued before August 14 can rebook for free within this window.
- Air Canada Express flights (operated by Jazz and PAL) continue to operate normally.
What to Do If Your Flight Is Canceled Today
If your Air Canada flight has been canceled due to the ongoing cabin crew strike, hereâs how to respond quickly and effectively.
1. Avoid Going to the Airport Without a Confirmed Booking
Air Canada has advised passengers not to go to the airport unless they have a confirmed rebooking. Most flights are suspended, and on-site assistance is extremely limited.
2. Rebook Your Flight for Free
Passengers who purchased tickets or redeemed Aeroplan points on or before August 14, for travel between August 15 and 18, can rebook without penalty. New travel dates must fall between August 21 and September 12. Rebooking is available through the Air Canada website or mobile app.
3. Request a Refund or Travel Credit
Refundable fares will be reimbursed in full. Non-refundable fares can be canceled and converted into an Air Canada Wallet credit or a Future Travel Credit. Aeroplan bookings will be automatically refunded in points.
4. Use Online Tools Instead of Calling
Call centers are experiencing long wait times. Use the Air Canada app, website, or social media channels to manage your booking and receive updates.
5. Ask About Rebooking on Other Airlines
Under Canadian passenger protection rules, Air Canada may be required to rebook you on a competing airline if it offers a faster route to your destination. Before accepting a refund, ask about this option.
6. Stay Updated on Flight Status and Travel Advisories
Check your flight status regularly via the Air Canada app or website. Monitor your departure airportâs website for real-time updates. Follow Air Canadaâs official travel advisory page for the latest information.
Final Thoughts
If youâre caught in the middle of this Air Canada strike, know this: youâre not alone, and youâre not without options. Travel disruptions are frustrating, especially when they hit without warning â but staying informed, acting quickly, and knowing your rights can make all the difference.
Take a moment to breathe, regroup, and lean on the tools available to you. And if youâre reading this from an airport lounge, a crowded terminal, or even from home with your suitcase still packed â Iâm with you.
