Air Canada and Flight Attendants' Union Reach Tentative Agreement to End Strike

Air Canada and the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE), representing approximately 10,000 flight attendants, have reached a tentative agreement to end the strike that began over the weekend. The strike had disrupted travel for about 130,000 passengers daily during the peak summer season.

The agreement addresses key issues, including compensation for tasks performed while planes are on the ground, such as passenger boarding. CUPE stated, "Unpaid work is over. We have reclaimed our voice and our power."

Air Canada plans to gradually resume operations starting Tuesday evening, with full service expected to be restored within seven to ten days. Some flights may continue to be canceled during this period until the schedule is stabilized.

The Canada Industrial Relations Board had previously declared the strike illegal and ordered flight attendants back to work. Despite this, the union continued the strike until the tentative agreement was reached.

Passengers affected by cancellations are eligible for full refunds or credits for future travel. Air Canada advises customers to check their flight status on the airline's website or mobile app before heading to the airport.