Air Canada announced on Wednesday that it will begin gradually suspending flights in preparation for a potential work stoppage by its flight attendants starting Saturday. The airline plans to cancel some flights beginning Thursday, with further cancellations on Friday, leading to a complete halt of operations by both Air Canada and its subsidiary Air Canada Rouge over the weekend.
The union representing about 10,000 Air Canada flight attendants issued a 72-hour strike notice on Wednesday. In response, Air Canada issued a lockout notice.
Customers affected by cancellations will be notified and eligible for full refunds. The airline has also arranged partnerships with other Canadian and international carriers to offer alternative travel options whenever possible.
Air Canada CEO Michael Rousseau expressed regret over the expected disruption, saying, “We regret the impact a disruption will have on our customers, our stakeholders and the communities we serve.”
Tensions have escalated after contract talks reached an impasse, with both sides remaining far apart. The flight attendants’ union highlighted key issues, including what it calls “poverty wages” and unpaid work during times when planes are on the ground.
“Despite our best efforts, Air Canada refused to address our core issues,” the union stated in a recent bargaining update.
The union declined an offer from Air Canada to resolve the dispute through binding arbitration, preferring to negotiate a contract that members can vote on.
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