Air Canada is set to gradually resume flights today, August 19, after reaching a mediated agreement with the union representing its flight attendants. The airline’s operations had been suspended since August 16 due to labor disputes, but mediation talks have paved the way for the return of approximately 10,000 flight attendants to their roles.
Michael Rousseau, President and CEO of Air Canada, expressed his regret over the disruption caused to customers. "The suspension of our service is extremely difficult for our customers. We deeply regret the impact of this labor dispute on them and we apologize. Now, our priority is to get them to their destinations as quickly as possible," he stated.
Gradual Resumption of Service
Resuming flights for a major airline like Air Canada is a complicated process. Rousseau has urged customers to exercise patience during the transition period, which could take up to ten days for full operational stability. The return of flights will start in the evening of August 19, although customers should be prepared for the possibility of ongoing cancellations as the airline works to reposition aircraft and crews.
Important Customer Information
Only customers with confirmed reservations on flights that are operational should come to the airport. It’s advisable for travelers to check the status of their flights via Air Canada’s website or the Air Canada mobile app before making their way to terminals.
In cases where flights are canceled, Air Canada has committed to providing options for affected customers. These include a full refund, travel credits for future use, or the possibility of rebooking with other airlines, although current capacity may be limited due to high demand throughout the peak summer travel season.
For ongoing updates and more information, customers may refer to the Air Canada customer service page.
The airline appreciates the patience and understanding of its customers as it navigates the complexities of resuming normal operations. Everyone at Air Canada is dedicated to ensuring travelers are accommodated as quickly and efficiently as possible during this challenging period.
