Air Canada strike grounds flights despite court ruling

Tuesday 19 August 2025 - 10:55

By: Sahili Aya

Air Canada strike grounds flights despite court ruling

The strike by Air Canada’s cabin crew continued on Monday despite a court ruling declaring the work stoppage illegal.

The Canada Industrial Relations Board (CIRB) issued an order demanding that the staff return to work, labeling the strike as “illegal.” However, the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE) stated at a press conference that it had no intention of complying and planned to continue the strike.

Air Canada announced the cancellation of all flights until Tuesday at 4 p.m. (EST).

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney urged both parties to resolve the dispute as quickly as possible. “Hundreds of thousands of Canadians and visitors are being affected by the strike,” he said. “It is disappointing that negotiations have not resulted in an agreement,” he added.

The strike involves nearly 10,000 flight attendants and stewards and stems from failed negotiations over salaries and unpaid work during aircraft downtime.

Experts estimate that the strike is causing losses of around $60 million per day. Since August 12, Air Canada has canceled approximately 2,600 domestic and international flights, according to aviation data firm Cirium.

On the Toronto Stock Exchange, Air Canada shares fell 3%, closing at $19.18, down 59 cents.