Air Canada Flight Attendants Issue 72-Hour Ultimatum as Talks Collapse

Air Canada faces the possibility of a major disruption as its flight attendants have issued a 72-hour strike notice, demanding improved wages and working conditions.

Diaspora Digital Media gathered that the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE), which represents over 10,000 cabin crew members, delivered the notice on Wednesday, August 13, 2025.

This move came only hours after the airline sought federal government intervention to avoid a work stoppage.

Union leaders said negotiations had stalled, leaving cabin crew frustrated over pay gaps compared to industry peers.

They argued that the airline’s profits should translate into better compensation for staff who face long hours and high passenger demands.

“We’ve worked tirelessly to maintain service standards, but our members deserve fair wages,” a CUPE spokesperson said. “This strike notice is our last resort.”

Air Canada responded by confirming it had applied for assistance under the Canada Labour Code, a process that could delay or prevent a strike.

The airline assured passengers that it remained committed to reaching a settlement without disrupting travel plans.

The labour dispute comes during the peak summer travel season, when demand for flights is high.

Industry analysts warn that a strike could ground hundreds of flights and cost the airline millions in lost revenue.

Government officials have not yet indicated whether they will intervene, but past cases suggest mediation may be the next step.

In the meantime, both sides face mounting pressure to return to the bargaining table before the 72-hour deadline expires.

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