Air Canada Strike Resolution: What Travelers Need to Know as Flights Resume

After a three-day disruption that stranded thousands, Air Canada and its flight attendants' union have tentatively resolved their strike that began on August 16, 2025. Flights will gradually resume, but ongoing delays and recovery challenges may still impact travelers in the coming days.

Flights Take Off Again, but Travel Plans Still in Turbulence

Just as travelers were struggling to rebook or seek refunds, Air Canada announced some good news: an agreement with its flight attendants' union means flights are coming back online. If you're one of the 130,000 daily passengers left in limbo since August 16, here's what the end of the strike means for you and your future travels.

Smooth Skies Ahead—Sort Of

Flights Are Returning: Starting Tuesday evening (August 19), Air Canada and Air Canada Rouge flights will gradually resume. Expect a full return to normal service within the next 7 to 10 days.
Help for Affected Travelers: If your flight was cancelled, Air Canada says you’re eligible for a full refund. Pearson Airport in Toronto and other major hubs are staffing up to help things run smoothly as operations come back online.

But Not Everything Is Back to Normal Yet

Ongoing Delays: The airline is warning of continued hiccups for about a week as it clears the backlog of travelers and flights.
Extra Costs for Passengers: Unfortunately, many travelers may have already spent extra on hotels, new tickets, and other surprise expenses during the disruption.

Tourism Industry: A Bumpy Ride This Summer

The timing could hardly have been worse—peak summer travel season. With fewer flights, Canadian hotels, attractions, and restaurants have felt the pinch.

Fewer Tourists, Lower Revenue: Many businesses that depend on travelers are bracing for a tough period while flight schedules rebuild and confidence returns.

Looking Ahead: What Travelers Should Watch For

Operational Jams: The next week may see continued lines, waits, and schedule changes as Air Canada works through its backlog.
Policy Changes? The issues that led to the strike—particularly around pay and unpaid work—could spark broader industry discussions (and more changes down the road).

In short, the skies are clearing, but if you’re flying with Air Canada soon, it’s a good idea to double-check your booking and brace for possible delays. And as always, keep an eye out for updates from the airline.