Air Canada has suspended plans to restart operations after its flight attendant union defied a court order to return to work. The union, representing 10,000 staff, refused to comply with the direction from the Canadian Industrial Relations Board (CIRB), which ordered workers back on duty by 2 p.m. Sunday.
The strike was already affecting around 130,000 travelers daily during peak summer travel season. Air Canada initially planned to resume flights on Sunday evening but now says it will restart operations on Monday evening. The airline attributed the union’s refusal to return to work, citing the CIRB’s order as “illegally directed.”
The federal government did not comment on the union’s actions. Union president Mark Hancock stated that the process was “unfair” and claimed the airline refused to bargain in good faith. He also said the union will challenge the constitutionality of the CIRB’s order.
Air Canada had proposed a 38% increase in compensation over four years, which it deemed would make its flight attendants the best-paid in Canada. However, the union rejected this offer due to inflation concerns. The airline announced that some flights would be canceled over the next seven to 10 days until operations return to normal.
Passengers impacted by the strike can request a full refund through Air Canada’s website or mobile app. Alternative travel options will also be offered on other airlines when possible, but immediate rebooking is not guaranteed due to high demand during peak travel season.
Source: https://www.npr.org/2025/08/17/nx-s1-5505416/air-canada-suspends-restart-plans