Air Canada to suspend all flights amid strike by cabin crew

Friday 15 August 2025 - 10:00

Air Canada announced Thursday that it will cancel all flights starting Saturday morning after failing to reach an agreement with its flight attendants’ union.

Mark Nasr, the airline’s Chief Operating Officer, said during a press conference in Toronto that cancellations would be phased in before a complete suspension of operations. Following dozens of flights canceled on Thursday, an additional 500 flights are expected to be cut by the end of Friday.

The Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE) notified the company on Wednesday that its members would go on strike starting Saturday if no tentative deal was reached. The complete shutdown could affect nearly 130,000 passengers per day, with estimated losses of up to $50 million daily.

Negotiations have stalled over wage increases and unpaid work during non-flying duties. Federal Employment Minister Patty Hajdu urged both sides to continue talks until an agreement is reached, noting that mediators are ready to work around the clock.

Earlier this week, CUPE rejected binding arbitration, calling it an attempt by the employer to undermine workers’ rights. “I urge both sides to put their differences aside, return to the bargaining table, and reach an agreement now for the many travelers who rely on you,” Hajdu said.