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Why is Air Canada planning a strike?
The strike is a result of ongoing contract disputes between Air Canada and its union representing around 10,000 flight attendants. The union is protesting wages and unpaid labor, rejecting airline proposals for arbitration. With 99.7% of union members voting in favor of striking, the conflict has escalated, prompting the airline to prepare for cancellations and possible lockouts.
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How will the strike affect travelers this week?
Starting Thursday, Air Canada plans to cancel many flights, with full service expected to cease by the weekend. Travelers should expect significant disruptions, including canceled flights and delays. If you're booked with Air Canada, it's important to check your flight status and consider alternative arrangements as the situation develops.
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What are the main issues unionized flight attendants are protesting?
The union is protesting issues related to wages and unpaid labor. They are demanding better pay and working conditions, and have rejected airline proposals for arbitration. The union's overwhelming vote in favor of striking indicates strong dissatisfaction with the current contract terms.
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Could this strike lead to long-term service disruptions?
Yes, the current standoff could result in prolonged disruptions if negotiations do not resolve quickly. The union has rejected arbitration offers, and the airline is prepared for a lockout, which could extend the impact on flight schedules and airline operations beyond the immediate strike period.
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What should travelers do if they have upcoming flights with Air Canada?
Travelers with upcoming Air Canada flights should monitor their flight status closely, consider rebooking if possible, and stay in touch with the airline for updates. It’s also wise to have backup plans, such as alternative airlines or flexible travel dates, in case of cancellations.
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Is there any way to avoid the impact of the strike?
The best way to avoid disruptions is to stay informed about the situation and communicate directly with Air Canada. If your travel plans are flexible, rebooking or choosing alternative carriers might help. However, given the scale of the strike, some level of disruption is likely unavoidable for travelers during this period.