Air Canada is one of the largest airlines in North America, employing thousands of flight attendants and serving millions of passengers each year. With recent labour disputes, strike notices, and flight cancellations making headlines, travellers are asking important questions — from how much Air Canada flight attendants earn to what rights passengers have if their flights are disrupted. This guide answers the most common questions, breaking down pay details, strike timelines, industry rules, and passenger compensation policies so you know exactly what to expect.
Air Canada Flight Attendants Strike 2025: How Much Do They Make and What’s at Stake?
How Much Do Air Canada Flight Attendants Get Paid?
According to Air Canada’s official backgrounder, a flight attendant hired in 2015 started at $25.13 per hour. Over the course of a decade in the same position, their hourly rate would increase to $63.07 — representing a 150% pay increase. These wages do not include additional allowances for layovers, per diems, or overtime pay, which can further increase overall earnings.
How Long Was Air Canada’s Last Strike?
The Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE), which represents Air Canada’s flight attendants, issued a 72-hour strike notice early on a Wednesday. In response, Air Canada issued a lockout notice starting at 1:30 a.m. ET on Saturday. Flight cancellations began as early as Thursday, ahead of the official work stoppage.
What Happens If My Flight Is Cancelled Due to a Strike at Air Canada?
If Air Canada cancels your flight because of a strike, the airline will send you an email and text notification. In most cases, you will be offered:
- Rebooking options on the next available flights.
- The opportunity to request a refund to your original payment method.
It’s important to act quickly, as rebooking options can fill up fast during labour disruptions.
What Is the 35-7 Rule for Flight Attendants?
The 35-7 rule is part of the U.S. Association of Professional Flight Attendants (APFA) guidelines. It states that reserve flight attendants — those on standby without a fixed schedule — cannot work more than 35 hours of flying time within a seven-day period. This rule helps ensure adequate rest and compliance with labour regulations.
Does Air Canada Compensate for Cancelled Flights?
Yes, but the amount and form of compensation depend on the reason for the cancellation and when you were notified:
- If the cancellation is within Air Canada’s control (not for safety reasons) and you were informed 14 days or less before departure, you may be eligible for compensation under Canada’s Air Passenger Protection Regulations.
- Compensation can include cash payments, refunds, or alternative travel arrangements.
- If the cancellation is due to events outside of Air Canada’s control (such as severe weather or air traffic control restrictions), the airline is still required to provide rebooking or a refund, but not necessarily cash compensation.
Whether you’re a passenger planning your next trip or someone curious about life as an Air Canada flight attendant, understanding these details can make a big difference. Flight attendants enjoy competitive pay that increases significantly over time, while passengers affected by strikes or cancellations have clear rights to refunds, rebookings, and sometimes even cash compensation. By staying informed, you can better navigate travel disruptions and make confident decisions when flying with Air Canada.