Canada Games hit by Air Canada Strike with athletes, families who are stuck in St. John’s

The Air Canada Strike and its Impact on the Canada Games

The recent Air Canada strike had a significant impact on the Canada Games, causing disruptions for athletes, officials, and their families. The timing of the strike was described as ‘surrealistic’ by Canada Games Council CEO Kelly-Ann Paul.

Thousands of flights were grounded on Saturday due to the strike by stewardesses, affecting the Canada Games taking place in St. John’s, NL from 8-25 August. Teenage athletes from all over the country were flying in and out for the event, leading to logistical challenges for organizers.

To overcome the disruptions, organizers arranged charter flights for teams from Ontario and Quebec whose travel plans were affected. Additionally, approximately 130 technical officials from various parts of the country had to be flown in using charter flights. Athletes were sent home in waves, with some returning in the opening week and others arriving for the following week of competition.

The resumption of flights on Tuesday afternoon brought relief after a three-day halt. An interim agreement was reached between the airline and the union representing over 10,000 stewardesses with the help of a federal mediator.

However, despite the resumption of service, some families found themselves stranded in St. John’s. William Lippai, the father of basketball player Joe Lippai from Team Saskatchewan, was among those waiting for a flight home. Despite the team arranging a charter flight for the athletes, his family was still stuck in St. John’s.

The Lippai family tried various options to secure a flight, including personally visiting the airport after being unable to reach Air Canada by phone. They were eventually booked on a Wednesday morning flight, which was further delayed to Thursday.

The prolonged stay in a hotel in St. John’s was expected to cost the family an additional $2,500 to $3,000. Despite the challenges, William Lippai expressed understanding and support for his son’s participation in the event.

The disruption caused by the Air Canada strike highlighted the importance of contingency planning for major events like the Canada Games. While the challenges were significant, the resilience and adaptability of organizers and participants ensured that the event continued despite the obstacles.