Air Canada Strike Ends: Relief for UAE Travellers as Flights Resume

The end of the week-long Air Canada strike of the attendants has brought much-needed relief to travelers in the UAE. Notably, the labor disputes caused major disruptions and cancellations between Toronto and Dubai. Now, they have concluded with a tentative agreement. Thus, it has allowed the slow resumption of flights. 

Strike Impact on UAE Travellers

Air Canada operates flights between Toronto and Dubai International Airport (DXB). So, the flights, including the Dubai-Toronto route (Flight AC057), were canceled. Thus, it has left students and families to look for alternatives. 

Afi Ahmad, Chairman of Smart Travels, said, “Canada is a very famous destination for the UAE residents, especially for families and students.” Furthermore, he explained that the timing of the strike was especially difficult as it matched the back-to-school season. So, many parents travel with their children to Canada for higher education, as it helps them to settle in before the academic year starts. 

Many UAE-based travellers rebooked flights with other airlines to cope with this situation. In addition, carriers like Emirates, Etihad, and Qatar Airways also operate flights to Canada. So, they fill the gap for the UAE residents. 

Why the Air Canada Strike Happened?

The dispute begins with the wage demands and compensation for unpaid work. The union of 10000 flight attendants of‌ Air Canada rejects the arbitration that leads to mass cancellation. According to the BBC, the strike disrupted the travel plans of 130,000 passengers throughout the world. Now, the tentative deal addresses several of the key demands of the union. Therefore, it has offered the hope of improved working conditions and stability moving forward. 

Gradual Recovery Ahead

Indeed, the flights are resuming. Still, Air Canada CEO Michael Rousseau cautioned that it is going to take seven to ten days to resume the complete schedule. Also, the aircraft and crew need to be moved. On top of that, some cancellations will continue as operations normalize. 

It would be best to keep checking the status via Air Canada’s website and mobile app. In addition, the airline is also giving refunds, travel credits, and rebooking options, though seat availability remains limited due to peak summer demand.

UAE-Canada Aviation Ties

The strike has highlighted that there is a deep aviation connection between the UAE and Canada. So, Air Canada and Emirates share a strategic codeshare partnership. Thus, it allows passengers a seamless travel experience and shared loyalty benefits. 

Read more: 

How the Air Canada strike makes it difficult for the UAE residents 

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