Air Canada Strike Ends After Three Days, Disrupts 500,000 Travellers Nationwide

Air Canada and the union representing its 10,400 flight attendants reached a tentative agreement, ending a three-day strike that disrupted operations and affected an estimated 500,000 travelers. The strike caused widespread flight cancellations and delays, with many passengers, such as Janie Lo and Magaly Vera, facing costly rebookings and lost vacation time, while others, like Arianna Anderson, had trips canceled outright. Airports including Toronto's Pearson and Winnipeg Richardson International Airport experienced long lines and customer frustration as operations slowly resumed, though full schedule stability may take up to ten days. The Canadian Chamber of Commerce emphasized the essential role of reliable air travel for the economy and highlighted the need for better government tools to resolve labor disputes promptly. Travel advisors across Canada also bore significant strain during the strike, often working unpaid to assist stranded passengers and manage cancellations amid limited information. Despite challenges, stakeholders welcomed the resolution as a critical step toward restoring normalcy in air travel and supporting Canada's transportation and trade sectors.