In Toronto, the union representing 10,000 striking Air Canada flight attendants announced on Sunday that they will contest a government order requiring them to return to work, asserting, “we remain on strike.”
The Canada Industrial Relations Board issued a directive for airline staff to return by 2 p.m. Sunday, following government intervention and Air Canada’s announcement to resume flights later that evening. The union, CUPE, criticized the order as “blatantly unconstitutional” and stressed their demand for fair compensation and a negotiated contract.
This strike has left over 100,000 travelers stranded worldwide during the busy summer travel season. Air Canada stated that while some flights will resume later in the day, normal operations may take several days to stabilize, and passengers can expect continued cancellations for up to a week.
Federal Jobs Minister Patty Hajdu emphasized that now is not the right time for such a work stoppage, referencing current economic challenges and recent U.S. tariffs on Canada. She referred the dispute to the Canada Industrial Relations Board.
Meanwhile, the airline reported that the existing collective agreement would be extended until a new contract is arbitrated. For context, Air Canada operates around 700 flights daily, and the strike had to this point canceled hundreds of flights over the weekend.
Earlier this year, the government had intervened to force arbitration between major railroads and their labor unions amid similar disputes, sparking concerns over workers’ rights. The Business Council of Canada has also called for binding arbitration in this situation.
Passengers affected by the flight cancellations can seek full refunds through Air Canada’s website, and the airline is attempting to provide alternative travel options when available, although immediate rebooking cannot be guaranteed due to high demand.
Air Canada has been in negotiations with the flight attendants’ union for about eight months without reaching a tentative agreement. While the airline proposed a 38% increase in total compensation over four years, including benefits and pensions, the union argued that the offer did not sufficiently address inflation concerns.
As this situation develops, it raises important questions about labor relations and the rights of workers in Canada.
