The strike commenced at 12:58 a.m. ET, leading to the cancellation of 623 flights ahead of the industrial action, which has impacted an estimated 130,000 passengers daily. With flight attendants picketing at major Canadian airports, Air Canada urged customers to refrain from arriving unless they had alternative arrangements. The airline reported a preliminary offer of a 38% increase in total compensation over four years, which the union, CUPE, deemed inadequate and below inflation rates.

In a public exchange, both sides have accused each other of failing to negotiate in good faith. Following a union vote showcasing overwhelming support for the strike, Canadian jobs minister Patty Hajdu has called for a return to negotiations. Rather than negotiations, CUPE allegations claim Air Canada pursued government intervention to limit employees' rights. The discord remains a significant event affecting air travel in Canada.