On August 19, 2025, approximately 10,000 Air Canada flight attendants continued their strike, defying a back-to-work order after the Canadian government declared the action illegal. The ongoing labour dispute has grounded around 700 flights per day, affecting an estimated 500,000 passengers and causing significant travel disruptions across Canada and beyond.
The strike, initiated by the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE), representing Air Canada’s flight attendants, has disrupted the airline’s operations since early August. The labour action stems from disagreements over wages, working conditions, and scheduling. Despite the government’s intervention, labelling the strike illegal and issuing a back-to-work order, the attendants have persisted, leading to widespread cancellations and delays.
✈️ 10,000 Air Canada flight attendants have defied a back-to-work order after their strike was declared illegal, grounding ~700 flights a day and affecting 500,000 passengers
Union leader Mark Hancock: “If it means going to jail, so be it” https://t.co/sGkWlv8e5k pic.twitter.com/4PjBV8tSP3
— Anadolu English (@anadoluagency) August 19, 2025Air Canada, one of Canada’s largest airlines, operates a significant portion of domestic and international flights. The grounding of 700 flights daily has stranded passengers, disrupted business travel, and impacted tourism, with ripple effects on the economy. Airports in Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal have reported long queues and passenger frustration.
The Canadian government, citing economic and public interest concerns, declared the strike illegal under labour laws. However, CUPE argues that the attendants’ demands for fair compensation and better workplace conditions justify their actions. Union representatives have vowed to continue the strike until a fair agreement is reached, urging negotiations with Air Canada’s management.
Air Canada has advised passengers to check flight statuses online and explore rebooking options. The airline is offering refunds or travel credits for affected bookings.
The ongoing strike highlights tensions in Canada’s aviation sector, with no immediate resolution in sight. As negotiations stall, the dispute could further strain Air Canada’s operations and reputation. Authorities and the airline are under pressure to resolve the conflict to minimise disruptions ahead of the busy fall travel season.
