Last updated on December 25, 2025
MONTREAL: Air Canada’s 10,000 striking flight attendants have refused to comply with a government-backed order to return to work, prolonging a labor standoff that has left operations grounded and thousands of passengers stranded across Canada.
The Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE), representing the attendants, declared the back-to-work order unconstitutional, arguing that it was “designed to protect the airline’s profit” rather than secure a fair labor settlement. The union instead urged Air Canada to return to the negotiating table to hammer out an agreement.
Air Canada, the country’s largest airline, responded by delaying the restart of its operations from Sunday until at least Monday evening. The prolonged shutdown has disrupted more than 100,000 travelers after the airline canceled most of its 700 daily flights since the strike began early Saturday morning.
At Toronto Pearson International Airport, confusion and frustration mounted. Some passengers camped overnight in lounges, uncertain if or when their flights would resume.
“We are kind of left to figure it out for ourselves and fend for ourselves with no recourse or options provided by Air Canada at this time,” said Elizabeth Fourney of Vancouver.
Francesca Tondini, a 50-year-old Italian traveler, said, “Maybe tomorrow, maybe Tuesday, maybe Friday, maybe Saturday – they don’t know,” after her return flights home were repeatedly canceled.
Government and Legal Pressure
The Canada Industrial Relations Board (CIRB) issued a binding arbitration order within hours of the strike, following a request by Jobs Minister Patty Hajdu. Under the Canada Labour Code, the government can compel arbitration in cases that threaten the economy.
Legal experts warn that CUPE’s defiance could carry severe consequences. Rafael Gomez, professor of employment relations at the University of Toronto, noted that ignoring such orders constitutes a violation of the law.
Michael Lynk, professor emeritus at Western University, cautioned that union leaders could face fines or even jail time, similar to a 1978 postal workers’ strike that ended in contempt charges.
The government may also pursue back-to-work legislation, though that would require opposition support when parliament reconvenes on September 15.
Core Issue: Compensation
The most contentious bargaining point remains compensation for time attendants spend on the ground, including assisting passengers during boarding. Currently, most attendants are paid only when aircraft are in motion, a long-standing grievance the union says must be resolved.
The strike highlights a broader debate over Canada’s relatively new Section 107 power, which allows the government to impose binding arbitration through the CIRB. Labor groups argue the measure undermines collective bargaining and tilts negotiations in favor of employers.
Wider Implications
This is the latest test of Ottawa’s labor intervention powers after the Trudeau government previously stepped in to prevent crippling rail and dock strikes. Analysts say the Air Canada standoff could set a precedent for how aggressively unions challenge state-backed labor rulings.
For now, travelers remain in limbo, as both sides remain entrenched. Air Canada passengers may face days of uncertainty until the dispute is resolved.
Disclaimer: This article may include information sourced from official statements, regulatory filings, public disclosures, or third-party reporting. The Ledger Asia provides editorial context and regional relevance where applicable. While efforts are made to ensure accuracy, not all data or claims cited may be independently verified at the time of publication.
