The union representing approximately 10,000 Air Canada flight attendants has announced its intention to strike, potentially as early as Saturday at 12:58 a.m. ET, if a resolution to the ongoing contract negotiations is not achieved. In anticipation of a possible walkout, the flight attendants have issued a warning that the strike could commence if an agreement is not finalized within the next 72 hours.

On Tuesday, Air Canada disclosed that it has reached an impasse in negotiations with the union, indicating that both parties remain significantly apart on key issues. The Air Canada component of the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE) has indicated that the main challenges in reaching an agreement stem from what it describes as the "poverty wages" received by flight attendants, as well as concerns surrounding unpaid labor during the time when planes are on the ground and not actively flying.

In response to the union's demands, Air Canada proposed entering a binding arbitration process to resolve the contract disputes; however, the union has decisively rejected this proposal, emphasizing its preference for direct negotiations leading to a deal that can be put to a vote among its members.

Air Canada has assured its customers that in the event of flight cancellations due to the potential strike, they will receive notifications via email and text message ahead of their scheduled travel. Customers affected by flight cancellations will also be eligible for a full refund, aiming to provide some measure of reassurance amidst the labor dispute.

In light of these developments, tensions are rising as both the airline and the union prepare for the possibility of a strike, which could disrupt air travel for many. The situation remains fluid, with the future of Air Canada's flight operations hanging in the balance as negotiations continue.