Air Canada, Union Reach Breakthrough Agreement
Air Canada has struck a tentative labor deal with the union representing its 10,000 flight attendants, bringing an end to a days-long strike that paralyzed travel across the country and left hundreds of thousands of passengers stranded.
The Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE), which represents Air Canada and Air Canada Rouge flight attendants, announced the breakthrough late Tuesday.
“Unpaid work is over. We have reclaimed our voice and our power,” said CUPE spokesman Hugh Pouliot, calling the deal a “transformational change” for the aviation industry.
Flights Still Disrupted Despite Strike Ending
While the agreement halts the strike, flight schedules remain heavily disrupted. According to flight tracker FlightAware, Air Canada had been forced to cancel more than 700 flights daily since the strike began on Saturday.
On Tuesday alone, over 500 flights were canceled, with another 160 already scrapped for Wednesday. Air Canada warned that it may take a week to 10 days before its full schedule is restored, as “aircraft and crew are out of position.”
The airline advised passengers to head to airports only if their flight is confirmed as operating.
What’s in the Tentative Deal?
Union members will now vote on the proposed contract before it becomes permanent. If rejected, the strike could resume.
Flight attendants had walked out seeking wage increases and paid compensation for tasks performed while planes are grounded including safety checks, handling medical emergencies, and assisting with boarding and deplaning.
The CUPE argues that wages have not kept pace with inflation or industry standards. Since 2000, Canadian inflation has risen 169% and average full-time wages have grown 210%, but entry-level Air Canada flight attendants’ pay has gone up just 10% ($3 per hour) in 25 years.
Massive Impact on Passengers
The strike affected both domestic and international routes, with a significant share of cancellations impacting flights to and from the United States.
Air Canada acknowledged the massive disruption, saying:
“The suspension of our service is extremely difficult for our customers. We deeply regret and apologize for the impact of this labour disruption. Our priority now is to get them moving as quickly as possible.”
The strike also defied an emergency order issued Saturday by Canada’s Jobs Minister, who had directed Air Canada and its employees to resume operations immediately.
What Happens Next?
The tentative deal brings relief to thousands of travelers, but uncertainty remains until union members cast their votes. If the deal is ratified, it will mark a major labor victory for flight attendants, ending what CUPE described as a “historic fight to affirm Charter rights.”
For now, Air Canada passengers are urged to check flight status before traveling as the airline works to gradually normalize operations.
