Turmoil in the Skies: Air Canada's Looming Strike Threatens Summer Travel

Air Canada is poised to cancel an estimated 500 flights by Friday evening, causing travel disruptions for around 100,000 passengers. The cancellations are a preemptive measure in response to an impending strike by unionized flight attendants, slated for Saturday.

The strike poses significant challenges to Canada's tourism sector during peak summer travel, while also testing Prime Minister Mark Carney's leadership as Air Canada calls for federal intervention. With a robust network of over 250 aircraft operating in 65 countries, Air Canada's operational complexities are highlighted as it begins a necessary service wind-down.

Negotiations between Air Canada and the Canadian Union of Public Employees have stalled, with workers demanding compensation for all hours worked. Air Canada has proposed a 38% increase in compensation over four years but remains in a deadlock over baseline pay rates. The situation remains tense as the deadline approaches.

(With inputs from agencies.)