Key Takeaways
- Air Canada offers free flight changes for eligible September travelers amid pilot negotiations.
- All flights are operating as scheduled; no disruptions expected until at least mid-September.
- Customers must contact original booking sources for reservations made through travel agencies.
Air Canada is currently in negotiations with the Air Line Pilots Association, but all flights are operating as scheduled without disruption. The airline has implemented a goodwill policy allowing free flight changes for certain passengers.
Customers who purchased Air Canada tickets by August 27, 2024, for travel between September 15 and September 23, 2024, can change their flights at no cost. Eligible passengers can rebook for travel between September 8-14, 2024, or September 24-November 30, 2024.
Air Canada has stated it will notify customers in advance of any changes to flight itineraries. The airline emphasizes that a strike mandate, which is part of the negotiation process, does not guarantee a strike will occur.
According to labour regulations, a strike cannot take place until after the current conciliation period and a subsequent 21-day cooling-off period, meaning no disruptions are possible until at least mid-September.
Air Canada Express carriers Jazz and PAL Airlines are not involved in the ALPA negotiations and continue to operate normally.
Passengers who booked through different sources such as Air Canada Vacations or travel agencies are advised to contact their booking source directly for changes. Air Canada has provided contact numbers for various customer support needs:
- General inquiries: 1-888-247-2262
- Aeroplan inquiries: 1-800-361-5373
- Air Canada for Business: 1-888-335-4189
- Air Canada Vacations: 1-800-296-3408
For group bookings and reservations made with Aeroplan points, specific instructions are available on the Air Canada website.
The airline states it remains committed to reaching a collective agreement with its pilots. As of now, flight operations beyond September 17, 2024, are not affected.
Travelers are encouraged to stay informed about the ongoing negotiations and any policy updates regarding future bookings.
