Air Canada Strike Grounds Flights, Affects 130,000 Passengers

URGENT UPDATE: A major strike by Air Canada cabin crew has plunged travel plans into chaos, impacting over 130,000 passengers as of today, August 16, 2025. The airline has announced a complete suspension of operations for Air Canada and Air Canada Rouge flights, leading to the cancellation of 623 flights and leaving travelers stranded.

The strike, involving approximately 10,000 flight attendants from the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE), was initiated after the union served a 72-hour strike notice on August 13. As the largest airline in Canada, Air Canada’s abrupt halt in service is causing widespread disruption across domestic and international routes, including direct flights to locations like Dublin.

Passengers are urged to check their flight statuses immediately, as the airline reported that the strike’s impact is likely to extend further, potentially affecting thousands more. Air Canada has confirmed that while the main operations are suspended, Air Canada Express flights, operated by third-party airlines, will continue as scheduled.

In a bid to alleviate the situation, Air Canada is offering passengers the option to change their flights for free between August 16 and 19, provided they meet certain criteria. Additionally, travelers are eligible for a full refund on unused tickets purchased before August 15 for flights between August 16 and 17.

Air Canada’s negotiations with CUPE have been tense, with the airline proposing a 38% total compensation increase over four years, including a 25% raise in the first year. However, CUPE has rejected the proposal, labeling it as “below inflation, below market value, and below minimum wage,” intensifying the urgency around the strike.

Travelers should stay informed and reach out to Air Canada or local airport authorities for guidance on alternate travel arrangements. This developing situation is critical for all those planning to fly with Air Canada in the coming days.

As this story unfolds, updates will follow to provide the latest developments in this ongoing crisis. Stay tuned for further information as Air Canada navigates this significant labor dispute.