Air Canada Faces Unprecedented Labor Strikes With CUPE’s 72-Hour Notice, Lockout Could Impact Thousands Of Travelers, New updates you Need To Know

Published on August 14, 2025

Air Canada is facing a potential labor crisis as the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE), which represents approximately 10,000 of its flight attendants, has issued a 72-hour strike notice. This unprecedented move comes after months of tense negotiations, with the union demanding better working conditions and fair compensation. If an agreement is not reached by the deadline, Air Canada may be forced to lock out the flight attendants, further escalating the situation. The strike and lockout could severely disrupt operations, affecting thousands of travelers worldwide. With flights canceled and delays likely, passengers are bracing for significant travel disruptions. As the deadline approaches, Air Canada is enacting contingency plans, but the airline’s future operations depend on the resolution of this critical labor dispute.

Air Canada is taking proactive measures to prepare for a potential strike after the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE), representing approximately 10,000 of the airline’s flight attendants, issued a 72-hour strike notice early Wednesday morning. In response, Air Canada has also signaled its intention to lock out the flight attendants if an agreement is not reached in time. Although the airline has requested government-mandated arbitration, it remains open to further negotiations with the union.

When Could the Air Canada Flight Attendants’ Strike Begin?
The potential strike is scheduled to begin at 1 a.m. EST on Saturday, August 16, 2025, if an agreement is not reached by then. For travelers on the West Coast, this means the strike could commence at 10 p.m. PST on Friday, August 15, 2025.

Air Canada’s Preparedness Plan Ahead of the Strike
As the strike date nears, Air Canada has begun a “phased wind-down” of its operations. The airline issued the required 72-hour notice and will continue to update passengers on any potential travel disruptions as the situation develops.

With operations across 65 countries, the airline will start cancelling flights on August 14, with further cancellations expected on August 15. By August 16, Air Canada and Air Canada Rouge flights will cease operations entirely.

What Should Vancouver Travelers Know?
Travelers flying from Vancouver International Airport (YVR) are encouraged to stay updated by checking online platforms for information about possible delays. YVR frequently shares updates regarding weather, staffing issues, protests, and any other disruptions that may affect flight schedules.

In the event of a strike, passengers should prioritize checking directly with Air Canada for the latest information, rather than relying on YVR’s social media channels. It is advised not to go to the airport to resolve flight issues, as Air Canada will reach out to affected passengers with updates. Additionally, FlightAware provides real-time tracking of flight cancellations and delays for those seeking more information.

What to Do if You Have a Booked Flight
According to Air Canada, flights listed on its website are expected to operate as scheduled, but passengers affected by cancellations will be notified promptly. For customers with flights scheduled between August 15 and August 18, the airline is offering free flight changes, provided tickets were purchased or points redeemed by August 13. These changes must be made for travel between August 21 and September 12.

Customers with non-refundable fares can cancel their flights and receive the ticket’s value either as an Air Canada Wallet credit or as a Future Travel Credit for use on future bookings.

What to Expect if Your Flight Is Canceled
In the case of a flight cancellation, Air Canada will notify affected customers via text message or email. Passengers can also check the status of their flights online or via the Air Canada mobile app.

While the airline will make efforts to rebook travelers on the next available flight, it acknowledges that space may be limited during the busy summer season. If rebooking is not possible, travelers can opt for a full refund. Refunds for flights canceled due to the strike will be processed within 30 days of the canceled segments and will be issued to the original form of payment.

Will You Be Entitled to Additional Compensation?
Under Canada’s Airline Passenger Protection Regulations (APPR), passengers are not entitled to compensation for delays or cancellations caused by labor disruptions, including meals, hotels, or other incidental expenses. The airline’s obligation is to rebook affected travelers as soon as possible.

However, if a rebooked flight results in a delay beyond the original arrival time, passengers may be eligible for compensation of up to $1,000, depending on the length of the delay. This is applicable if the cancellation notification was received 14 days or less before the scheduled departure.

Travelers who choose to cancel their flight and request a refund may be eligible for up to $400 in compensation for the inconvenience, provided they were notified about the cancellation within 14 days of the scheduled departure.

Travel expert Lukacs advises that passengers consider the financial implications of last-minute flight bookings, as these can often incur higher costs. Opting for a refund may also relieve the airline of further responsibilities related to the trip.

Will Canadian Travel Insurance Cover Flight Changes Due to the Strike?
The Travel Health Insurance Association of Canada (THIA) recommends that Canadian travelers review their travel insurance policies to understand what is covered in the event of a flight change. Affected passengers are encouraged to contact their providers for clarification.

In conclusion, Air Canada is facing a potential labor strike after CUPE issued a 72-hour notice, which could lead to a lockout, disrupting operations and affecting thousands of travelers. If unresolved, the strike will cause significant cancellations and delays, with the airline preparing contingency plans.