Toronto, Canada – August 19, 2025 – After days of unprecedented travel disruptions, Air Canada has officially announced the phased resumption of its flight operations following a mediated agreement with the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE). The resolution, facilitated by mediator William Kaplan, ensures the immediate return of over 10,000 flight attendants, marking the end of a strike that had grounded the airline since August 16.
For passengers across Canada, the U.S., and international destinations, this development comes as welcome relief. The agreement paves the way for Air Canada and its low-cost subsidiary, Air Canada Rouge, to restore routes step by step, helping reconnect families, tourists, and business travelers.
Why the Return Matters for Tourism and Travel
The strike halted thousands of flights during the peak summer tourism season, leaving passengers stranded and impacting Canada’s tourism economy. Popular destinations such as Toronto, Montreal, Vancouver, and Calgary, which serve as international gateways, experienced severe slowdowns.
With the agreement in place, the Canadian tourism sector can now look forward to recovering visitor traffic. From international travelers flying in to explore the Rocky Mountains in Alberta, the historic districts of Quebec City, and the coastal beauty of British Columbia, to Canadians traveling abroad, the resumption of flights is vital for tourism growth and cultural exchange.
Gradual Resumption of Flights
Air Canada confirmed that initial flights would resume on the evening of August 19, but a full return to normal service may take seven to ten days. The airline must reposition aircraft and crew, a complex logistical task following days of cancellations.
Passengers should expect:
- Delays and rescheduling during the transitional phase.
- Possible last-minute cancellations while operations stabilize.
- Limited rebooking availability due to high summer travel demand.
Travelers are strongly advised to check flight status via Air Canada’s official website (aircanada.com) or the mobile app before heading to airports.
Passenger Options and Rights
Air Canada has outlined customer support measures, ensuring flexibility during this transitional period:
- Full refunds for cancelled flights.
- Travel credits for future bookings.
- Rebooking options on Air Canada or partner airlines, subject to seat availability.
While Canadian Air Passenger Protection Regulations (APPR) offer limited compensation for strike-related disruptions, the mediated agreement now ensures a more stable travel environment. Importantly, during the ratification process, no strikes or lockouts are permitted, giving passengers confidence that services will continue without further disruptions.
Broader Impact on Canadian Tourism
The resumption of Air Canada’s flights is expected to positively influence:
- Inbound Tourism: Visitors from Europe, Asia, and the U.S. can once again access Canada’s tourist hotspots. The reopening aligns with Canada’s efforts to strengthen its tourism competitiveness.
- Domestic Travel: Travelers can now fly between Canadian cities for work or leisure, fueling regional economies and local attractions.
- International Trade and Business Travel: Air Canada’s restored connectivity is crucial for conferences, investments, and partnerships with global markets.
Government tourism boards, including Destination Canada, have emphasized that stable airline operations are critical to achieving growth targets for international visitor arrivals in 2025 and beyond.
Statement from Air Canada Leadership
Michael Rousseau, President and CEO of Air Canada, expressed regret for the disruptions but emphasized the airline’s focus on recovery:
“Restarting a major carrier like Air Canada is a complex undertaking. Full restoration may require a week or more, so we ask for our customers’ patience. I assure them that everyone at Air Canada is doing everything possible to enable them to travel soon.”
What Travelers Should Do
If you’re planning to travel with Air Canada over the next week:
- Check Flight Status Frequently – Use the Air Canada app or website before leaving for the airport.
- Arrive Early – Allow extra time for check-in and security due to higher passenger volumes.
- Know Your Rights – Refunds, credits, and rebooking options are available.
- Stay Flexible – Some schedules may shift while the airline rebalances operations.
- Consider Travel Insurance – Coverage can help offset unexpected costs during this recovery period.
Looking Ahead: A More Stable Horizon
With its largest labor dispute in recent history now resolved, Air Canada is positioning itself for a stronger return. The mediated agreement ensures not only the immediate resumption of flights but also long-term operational stability, offering reassurance to both Canadian and international travelers.
As Canada continues to welcome tourists from around the globe, Air Canada’s restored flight network is a cornerstone in supporting tourism, cultural exchange, and economic growth. The next ten days will be crucial in stabilizing operations, but the outlook for travel to and from Canada is once again bright.
✅ Bottom Line:
Air Canada’s return to the skies signals relief for passengers, renewed momentum for Canadian tourism, and stronger confidence in the airline industry. With routes reconnecting major cities like Toronto, Montreal, and Vancouver, Canada is once again open to the world—ready to welcome travelers eager to explore its breathtaking landscapes and vibrant culture.
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