Photo: Shutterstock Air Canada is gradually resuming operations after recent disruptions.
Following the U-turns and strikes that halted the airline's operations since August 16th, Air Canada announced today the gradual renewal of operations, facilitated by a mediation agreement with the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE), led by agreed mediator William Kaplan. The agreement requires the company's 10,000 service attendants to return to work immediately, allowing the resumption of Air Canada and Air Canada Rouge services.
Michael Rousseau, President and CEO of Air Canada, stated: "The suspension of operations was very difficult for our customers. We apologize and ask for passengers' patience and understanding in the coming days. Restoring operations for a major airline like Air Canada is complex, and a full return to service may take a week or more. The entire company team is doing everything possible to resume service as quickly as possible."
The first flights are scheduled for the evening of August 19th, but a full return to service may take seven to ten days, depending on the location of aircraft and crews. During this period, temporary flight cancellations may occur, and customers are advised to check their flight status on aircanada.com or the airline's mobile app before heading to the airport.
For customers whose flights have been canceled, the company offers a full refund, credit for future flights, or the option to be rebooked on other airlines, subject to availability, which is currently limited due to the summer season.
As part of the procedures, Air Canada will not disclose further details about the agreement until the voting and legality process is complete, but during this period no strike or lockout can occur, allowing customers to plan and book flights with full confidence.