With a potential strike by Air Canada pilots up in the air (pun intended), the uncertainty surrounding travel plans is affecting tens of thousands of passengers. The Air Line Pilots Association (ALPA), representing over 5,000 Air Canada pilots, is negotiating wage demands that could lead to a total shutdown of the airline’s operations if no agreement is reached. A strike could begin as early as mid-September, leaving travelers with canceled flights or disruptions.
If you’re concerned about your upcoming travel, here are seven essential tips to help you navigate the situation and minimize inconvenience:
1. Stay Updated on Strike Developments
The strike or lockout can’t occur before mid-September due to a 21-day cooling-off period that began in late August. A total shutdown could begin on September 18 if negotiations fail. Keep a close eye on the latest news, check Air Canada’s website regularly, and follow them on social media for real-time updates. This way, you can plan ahead and make informed decisions.
2. Know What Flights Are Affected
Air Canada and its low-cost subsidiary, Air Canada Rouge, will be impacted by the potential strike. However, Air Canada Express (including Jazz and PAL carriers) flights will continue as normal, as they are not involved in the current negotiations. Flights operated by Air Canada’s partners, such as Lufthansa, also won’t be impacted. Knowing which flights are affected will help you decide on the best rebooking options.
3. Take Advantage of Air Canada’s Goodwill Policy
Air Canada has implemented a goodwill policy allowing customers to make changes to their bookings for free if they are scheduled to travel between September 15 and 23. If your booking was made before September 9, you can rebook your flight to a later date between September 24 and November 30, 2024, or earlier dates in September if you want to avoid the strike period. Act quickly to secure a new itinerary before alternative options fill up.
4. Consider Canceling Your Flight for a Refund or Credit
If your flight is affected and you choose to cancel, you’ll receive a full refund if you purchased a refundable fare. If you bought a non-refundable ticket, Air Canada is offering a one-time credit for future travel. Be sure to review the terms of this credit, as it’s non-transferable and comes with an expiration date. Aeroplan members who cancel can have their points redeposited into their account.
5. Explore Alternative Airlines
If your flight is at risk of cancellation due to the strike, it’s wise to consider booking with another airline. While Air Canada Express and partner airlines like Lufthansa are not affected, you may want to explore other carriers like WestJet or Porter, particularly if your travel dates fall within the strike period. Be prepared for higher demand and prices, so book early if you need to secure alternative travel plans.
6. Be Aware of Compensation Rules
Under Canada’s Air Passenger Protection Regulations, travelers impacted by strikes are not entitled to additional compensation beyond a full refund. However, Air Canada is committed to rebooking passengers on different flights whenever possible, though availability may be limited. Be sure to review your rights as a passenger, particularly if your flight is significantly delayed or canceled.
7. Stay Cautious of Scams
Air Canada has warned passengers to be on the lookout for potential scams. The airline will never ask for your booking reference or locator number since they already have that information. If you are contacted by someone claiming to represent Air Canada, be cautious and verify the source before sharing any personal information.
Final Thoughts
While the threat of a strike by Air Canada pilots is causing significant concern for travelers, proactive planning can help you avoid stress and minimize disruptions. Stay informed, take advantage of flexible booking options, and always have a backup plan in case your flight is affected. Let’s hope this is resolved soon for the sake of pilots and travellers!