Air Canada Says Passengers Affected by August Labour Disruption Can Claim Expenses

Air Canada has outlined its process for handling refunds and reimbursements following the recent labour disruption that affected flights between August 15 and August 23, 2025.

“We’re working to resolve the refund and reimbursement claims submitted following the recent labour disruption, and we’re committed to making this right,” the airline said in a September 22 statement.

Air Canada confirmed that all upcoming Air Canada and Air Canada Rouge flights are operating as scheduled. The airline has entered arbitration with flight attendants represented by CUPE, and emphasized there will be no strike or lockout. “You can plan, book and travel with full confidence,” the statement read.

 

Air Canada crew members picketing as part of CUPE's current strike. (Photo Credit: CUPE)

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Reimbursements for Out-of-Town Expenses

The airline said customers impacted by cancelled flights during the disruption may submit claims for reasonable expenses such as overnight accommodations and meals. This applies to passengers who were unable to return home due to cancellations. 

Claims should be submitted through the airline’s Reimbursement Assistance – Labour Disruption page and must include receipts and a brief explanation.

Air Canada noted that this reimbursement is in addition to covering other transportation costs under its flexible rebooking policy if the airline was unable to rebook affected passengers.

(Photo Credit: SCFP / CUPE)

Flexible Rebooking Policy

Passengers who booked alternate transportation, including flights on other airlines, are also eligible for reimbursement under specific conditions, including:

• Original flights were scheduled between August 15 and August 23, 2025, and were cancelled.
• The airline was unable to rebook them within five days of the original departure.
• Alternative travel was booked in the same or lower cabin, between the same origin and destination, with the same travelling companions, and prioritized reaching the destination as soon as possible.

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Speeding Up the Claims Process

Air Canada stated that refunds may be reviewed separately from reimbursement claims for expenses such as meals, accommodations, or alternative travel arrangements. 

Passengers can expect to be contacted if their submissions are incomplete.

All claims should be submitted on the Reimbursement Assistance – Labour Disruption page.

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