Air Canada Prepares for Gradual Flight Suspension Amidst Labour Dispute

Air Canada is making plans to halt the majority of its flights in the coming days due to an ongoing dispute with the Air Line Pilots Association (ALPA). Over 5,200 pilots, who operate Air Canada and Air Canada Rouge flights, are represented by ALPA. The two sides have been negotiating for months, but they remain far apart, primarily over wage demands. Should talks fail, either party can issue a 72-hour strike or lockout notice, potentially disrupting operations starting September 15, 2024.

Efforts to Protect Passengers

Air Canada is taking steps to minimize the impact on customers by offering flexibility to those with travel booked between September 15 and 23, 2024. The airline encourages customers to defer travel plans or reschedule without additional fees. Those impacted by cancellations will also be entitled to full refunds.

While Air Canada Express, operated by regional partners, will continue flying, these flights account for only a fraction of the airline’s overall operations. Customers whose flights are disrupted are urged to check their flight status and avoid going to the airport without confirmed new bookings, as contact centers are likely to experience high wait times.

Anticipated Disruption

Air Canada currently operates approximately 670 flights per day, serving more than 110,000 passengers. If a shutdown occurs, flights will gradually be canceled over a three-day period, with a complete cessation of operations by September 18, 2024. The airline has emphasized the importance of a gradual shutdown to properly manage the logistics and minimize chaos for both passengers and employees.

Negotiation Stalemate

Air Canada has been in negotiations with ALPA for over a year, making progress on many issues. However, the union’s demands for wage increases remain a sticking point. Air Canada has proposed arbitration as a solution, but so far, the union has not agreed. The company has called on the Canadian government to step in, as it has done in previous labour disputes, to help avoid a prolonged disruption.

In the event of a complete shutdown, Air Canada estimates it will take up to 10 days to fully resume operations once a resolution is reached. Cargo services, which are vital for shipping essential goods, will also be affected during this time.

Air Canada remains hopeful that a resolution can be reached to avoid major disruptions for passengers and staff alike.