**Breaking News: Air Canada Flights Grounded as Flight Attendants Strike**
In a dramatic escalation of labor tensions, Air Canada has suspended all operations following a strike by over 10,000 flight attendants, leaving travelers in chaos during the peak summer travel season. The strike commenced early this morning after negotiations for a new contract failed, prompting the airline to halt flights that affect approximately 130,000 passengers daily.
The Canadian Union of Public Employees announced the strike after rejecting Air Canada’s proposal for government-directed arbitration, which would have stripped attendants of their right to strike and handed over contract negotiations to a third-party mediator. The union’s decision has triggered a complete shutdown, stranding thousands of Canadians abroad and disrupting travel plans worldwide.
Air Canada confirmed that it would cover hotel costs and expenses for flight attendants but refused to guarantee wages or provide clarity on their return home, exacerbating tensions between the airline and its staff. Reports indicate that communication has broken down, with union representatives expressing frustration over Air Canada’s lack of transparency and support for its employees.
Travelers are now left scrambling for alternative arrangements, as the situation unfolds across major airports in the U.S. and Canada. With no immediate resolution in sight, the impact of this strike is being felt far and wide, as passengers face uncertainty and frustration.
Stay tuned for updates as this story develops.