Air Canada Flight Attendants Continue Strike Despite Government's Back-to-Work Order

Air Canada's 10,000 flight attendants, represented by the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE), have continued their strike into its third day, defying a back-to-work order issued by the Canada Industrial Relations Board (CIRB). The strike, which began early Saturday, has resulted in the cancellation of approximately 700 daily flights, affecting around 130,000 passengers daily during the peak summer travel season.

Federal Jobs Minister Patty Hajdu invoked Section 107 of the Canada Labour Code to direct the CIRB to impose binding arbitration and mandate an immediate end to the labor dispute. Despite this directive, CUPE President Mark Hancock criticized the order as unconstitutional and vowed continued resistance, stating the process was unfair.

The primary contention in the negotiations centers on compensation for flight attendants' unpaid work during boarding and ground time. Air Canada proposed a 38% increase in total compensation over four years, including an 8% raise in the first year. However, the union argues this offer is insufficient, especially considering inflation.

Air Canada has postponed plans to resume operations until at least Monday evening, leaving thousands of passengers stranded and seeking alternative travel arrangements. The airline is offering refunds and rebooking options, though availability is limited due to the high demand during the summer travel peak.

The CIRB's order to return to work was set for 2 p.m. ET on Sunday, but with the union's continued defiance, the timeline for resuming normal operations remains uncertain. The government emphasizes the importance of avoiding economic disruption, especially in light of U.S. tariffs on Canada.