Air Canada, Flight Attendants Reach Tentative Deal

The union representing some 10,000 flight attendants with Air Canada say a tentative deal has been made with the airline.

The news broke overnight after several hours of negotiations with the help of a mediator.

The Canadian Union of Public Employees says the deal will be presented to membership who will have the chance to vote on it.

The work stoppage began Saturday, and the Canadian Industrial Relations Board ordered flight attendants back to work. CUPE, however, is instructing members to ignore the order.

Air Canada said it will gradually restart its operations today.

The first flights are scheduled for this evening, but customers are advised that the airline’s return to full, regular service may require seven-to-ten days as aircraft and crew are out of position.

During this process, some flights will be cancelled over the next seven to ten days until the schedule is stabilized.

Only customers with confirmed bookings whose flights are shown as operating should go to the airport.

Air Canada will not comment on the agreement until the ratification process is complete. During any ratification or under the binding arbitration process, a strike or lockout is not possible, meaning customers can plan, book and travel with Air Canada with certainty.