Flights will return gradually over next 7-10 days

Air Canada and the members of the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE) have reached a mediated settlement, and flights on the carrier will slowly begin to return today (Tuesday).  The strike of flight attendants began on Aug. 16, suspending operations of Air Canada and Air Canada Rouge.

CUPE had defied an order from the government to return to work on Sunday. However, the two sides began mediation discussions on Monday with the stipulation that the cabin crews return to work, according to Air Canada.

It will take seven to 10 days to return to full service because aircraft and crew are out of position, according to Air Canada. The carrier said that only customers with confirmed bookings whose flights are shown as operating should go the airport.

CUPE members now must vote on the agreement to make it permanent. In a statement on its website, CUPE said, “Unpaid work is over; we have reclaimed our voice and our power.”

The union was seeking better wages for flight attendants, which would include pay for duties that are performed while planes are on the ground, such as boarding passengers. Air Canada attendants had been paid only for duties performed during flight times.