Air Canada offers to cover passengers’ added expenses racked up during strike

Air Canada passengers affected by the recent flight attendant strike can breathe a sigh of relief as the airline has announced plans to cover reasonable expenses incurred during the disruption. From hotel stays to meals and transport costs, passengers who faced delays and cancellations between Aug. 15 and Aug. 23 will be eligible for reimbursement.

The Chief Operating Officer of Air Canada, Mark Nasr, issued a sincere apology, stating, “We deeply apologize, and we’re committed to making things right for all customers.” This move comes after the airline previously announced that it would reimburse passengers who had to make alternate travel arrangements due to the strike.

Although airlines are not obligated to cover additional expenses resulting from contract disputes under Canada’s Air Passenger Protection Regulations (APPR), aviation expert John Gradek believes that Air Canada’s decision to reimburse affected passengers for rebooking their own flights is a strategic move for damage control. The regulations stipulate that airlines must offer rebooking options to passengers whose flights are canceled for any reason.

Passengers flying from the U.K. and EU countries have more rights when it comes to compensation for flight disruptions. While Air Canada is not offering additional compensation under the APPR, passengers departing from the U.K. or EU member states can claim up to €600 or £520 respectively under EU air passenger rights regulations.

The Montreal Convention also provides avenues for passengers traveling internationally, including to the United States, to seek compensation for flight disruptions. While airlines may not be liable for disruptions caused by extraordinary circumstances, Gradek argues that a strike involving the airline should not fall into that category.

Passengers who feel that their rights have not been honored by Air Canada or any other airline can file a complaint with the Canadian Transportation Agency (CTA). However, due to a backlog of air passenger complaints, resolution may take some time.

Overall, Air Canada’s decision to cover expenses for affected passengers is seen as a step in the right direction for customer satisfaction and compliance with air passenger protection regulations.