Air Canada Strike Threat & New Check-In Policies Impact September Flights
Air Canada passengers should begin to prepare for upcoming flights as two important events are in the works: a possible pilot strike planned for September 17 as well as new flight check-in times that go into effect September 4.
What to Know About the Potential Pilot Strike
Pilots with Air Canada have decided to strike and have given a September 17 deadline for any negotiations. While talks are ongoing, Air Canada has reassured travellers that flights are running as scheduled, but delays and cancellations could be on the horizon if both sides can’t reach an agreement by the deadline.
Because of this, the airline will allow passengers to change flights without any associated fees if you’re booked to fly between September 15 and September 23. If you’d like to make alternate plans to your scheduled flight(s) you can do so on the Air Canada site or by contacting the carrier directly.
Aeroplan Reward passengers can reach customer services at 1-888-247-2262 or 1-800-361-5373 but be prepared for longer wait times.
If your flight was delayed, canceled or overbooked within the last 3 years, you could be eligible for up to €600 in compensation.Check Your Flight
What to Do if Your Flight is Delayed or Cancelled
If a strike does take place, you might be affected by delays and cancellations. But thanks to Canada’s Air Passenger Protection Regulations (APPR), you may be entitled to as much as $1,000 CAD in compensation depending on the length of your delay at your final destination.
- 3-6 hours delay: As much as $400
- 6-9 hours delay: As much as $700
- 9+ hours delayed: As much as $1,000
If your flight is cancelled, Air Canada must also give you a choice between a full ticket refund and a rebooking as well as meals, refreshments, and hotel accommodation if you have to wait until the following day for your flight.
Keep in mind that if the strike escalates to a legal labour action then the airline may not be required to pay passengers compensation, as a development like this would be outside the airline’s control.
If you are affected by delays and cancellations, remember to ask the airline the exact cause of the disruption. Also, make a note of your eventual arrival time and keep all receipts for purchases you had to make as a result of the disrupted flight. These will all help you if you make a compensation claim.
New Check-in-Deadlines
On September 4th, Air Canada made changes to its existing check-in rules in order to improve their boarding process and on-time performance. The new rules require passengers to check-in at least 60 minutes prior to departure and will apply to all flights including those in Canada, the U.S. and all international routes.
Passengers can still check-in online or via the mobile app 24 hours before departure. As well baggage drop-off deadlines will remain unchanged at 45 minutes before departure on domestic flights and 60 minutes for international flights
Until now Air Canada check-in time varied among airports with Toronto Pearson (YYZ) having a 90 minute check-in deadline for all international flights.
Billy Bishop Toronto City AIrport (YTZ) is the only location where these rules do not apply. Their check-in deadline will continue to be 30 minutes before boarding on domestic flights and luggage drop-off will stay at 45 minutes before the flight departs.
If you’re affected by delays or cancellations, we can help you get the compensation you deserve. Whether your flight was disrupted by a strike or for any other reason, our legal team can handle the claim process from start to finish.
Curious about how much you could get from the airline?Enter your flight details below.Check Your Flight
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