Anticipated travel disturbances at Kelowna airport due to Air Canada's labour disagreement
Air Canada passengers are facing travel disruptions due to a labor dispute with its flight attendants, represented by the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE). The dispute, which began on August 16, 2025, has led to the cancellation of hundreds of flights, affecting about 130,000 passengers daily.
The strike, which ended on August 19, was initiated over wage disputes, including demands for pay for groundwork activities and higher raises than the airline's proposed 17.2% over four years. The union defied a government-imposed return-to-work order, causing significant travel disruptions.
On August 19, a tentative agreement was reached between the parties, but it is still subject to union member ratification, which could lead to rejection of the deal. Following this, Air Canada began resuming flights starting August 19 and by August 23, operations were largely restored.
During the strike, Air Canada allowed fee-free postponements for booked passengers, rebooked them on partner airlines where possible, and expanded reimbursement policies to cover reasonable lodging and meal expenses for affected travelers between August 15 and 23. Passengers were advised not to come to airports without confirmed bookings and to check flight status online or via the mobile app.
The labor dispute only impacts Air Canada's Mainline and Rouge flights. Rouge offers direct flights from Kelowna to Toronto and Montreal, which may be affected. However, in Kelowna, the impact of the labor dispute on Air Canada flights is anticipated to be less due to the operation of Air Canada Jazz, one of the airline's divisions not involved in the dispute.
Air Canada flights connecting regionally into Calgary, Edmonton, and Vancouver are not affected by this labor action. Passengers are advised to check their flight status with Air Canada or explore alternate travel options.
As the airline continues to work towards restoring normal operations, passengers may still expect delays, cancellations, and high demand for available flights. Air Canada is providing information about itineraries on their website and asking for binding arbitration as an imminent shutdown looms. Passengers like Mikail Khamissa, who expressed concern about the potential cancellation of their flight, are encouraged to stay informed and plan accordingly.
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