Strike Notice Sparks Flight Cancellations
If you hold an Air Canada ticket, the looming flight attendants’ strike could disrupt your travel plans. The Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE), representing Air Canada’s cabin crew, issued a 72-hour strike notice, while the airline announced a possible lockout starting early Saturday.
To minimize chaos, Air Canada will cancel flights in phases, beginning Thursday, with a complete halt of Air Canada and Air Canada Rouge services by Saturday. The airline says this “controlled wind down” allows customers to plan ahead and avoid being stranded.
What the Law Says About Your Rights
Under Canadian Transportation Agency (CTA) rules, flight cancellations caused by strikes are considered “outside the airline’s control.” While this means no compensation is required under the Air Passenger Protection Regulations (APPR), passengers still have rights.
Air Canada must provide timely updates, assist in completing your journey, or offer alternative arrangements. The airline says customers with cancelled flights can request a full refund via its website or mobile app.
Refund or Alternate Travel—Choose Wisely
Passenger rights advocates warn that accepting a refund may limit your options.
“If you request alternate transportation instead of a refund and the airline fails to provide it, you can claim compensation for your new travel costs,” says Gabor Lukacs, president of Air Passenger Rights.
Air Canada is working with other carriers to arrange alternate travel, but warns that peak summer demand means seats may be limited and delays likely.
Flexible Rebooking and Policy Updates
The airline has introduced a flexible rebooking policy, allowing customers to change or postpone travel without extra fees. Passengers should regularly check Air Canada’s website for updates and specific strike-related policies.
Travel Insurance Could Save You Money
Experts say travel insurance may cover strike-related disruptions, provided your policy includes such coverage and was purchased before the strike became a “known event.” Policies bought after that date may not apply.
Will McAleer of the Travel Health Insurance Association of Canada advises travelers to review their coverage carefully to determine eligibility for reimbursement of non-refundable travel expenses.
Bottom line: If your Air Canada flight is impacted, act quickly—know your rights, explore alternate travel options, and check your insurance coverage.
Stay tuned to Maple Wire for the latest updates on Canada’s travel disruptions.
