Hundreds of holidaymakers and business travellers have been left stranded after Air Canada employees launched a surprise strike, forcing the airline to cancel dozens of flights.
The walkout, triggered by a bitter pay dispute, has thrown travel plans into disarray, with passengers scrambling to find alternative routes or facing indefinite delays.
Why Are Air Canada Staff Striking?
The industrial action comes after negotiations between the airline and union representatives collapsed. Workers are demanding higher wages to keep up with soaring living costs, but management insists the demands are unsustainable.
"We've been pushed to breaking point," said one striking baggage handler. "While executives pocket bonuses, we're struggling to pay rent."
Passenger Nightmare Unfolds
At airports across Canada and key international hubs:
- Families with young children slept on terminal floors
- Business travellers missed crucial meetings
- Connecting passengers saw their entire itineraries collapse
"This is an absolute disgrace," fumed British tourist Margaret Hargreaves, 58, stranded in Toronto. "We've been given no information, no help - just left to rot at the gate."
What Should Affected Passengers Do?
Air Canada has issued the following advice:
- Check flight status online before heading to the airport
- Consider rebooking through other Star Alliance carriers
- Keep all receipts for potential compensation claims
Industry experts warn the disruption could last days as both sides remain entrenched in their positions. With summer travel season peaking, the strike threatens to impact thousands more passengers unless a swift resolution is found.
