The union representing Air Canada's flight attendants has requested to end the mediation process regarding wage increases. This decision follows a recent vote in which members overwhelmingly rejected a proposed wage agreement. A spokesperson for the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE) confirmed the request, stating that the union found no evidence that mediation would lead to an acceptable wage increase for its members.

"The union is therefore seeking an expedited process that will put money in our members' pockets and conclude this process as quickly as possible," the spokesperson said. Air Canada has agreed to the union's request, ensuring that flights will continue to operate normally.

In a statement, Air Canada noted that CUPE asked to bypass mediation and proceed directly to arbitration regarding the wage component. The airline confirmed this request on September 12, 2025.

The union's move comes after a tumultuous period for Air Canada, which experienced significant disruptions last month when it canceled flights in anticipation of a strike by its 10,000 flight attendants. The strike lasted three days and ended when Labour Minister Patty Hajdu invoked Section 107 of the Canada Labour Code, prompting intervention from the Canada Industrial Relations Board.

A tentative agreement was reached on August 19, but flight attendants voted against the wage offer earlier this month, leading to the current situation. The union argues that cabin crew members are not being compensated fairly for their work, particularly for time spent on the job when flights are not in the air.

Air Canada stated that while the rest of the tentative agreement remains intact, the wage issue will now be addressed through arbitration. The airline emphasized its commitment to resolving the matter cooperatively, aiming to provide cabin crew with wage increases and retroactive pay dating back to April 2025 as soon as possible. The agreement also stipulates that there will be no labor disruptions during this process.