Air Canada violates federal regulations; passengers protest failure to book alternative flights

Several Canadian passengers say Air Canada has refused to book them on alternative flights with other airlines during a strike by its workers, in violation of federal passenger rights laws.

By law, the airline is required to place passengers on the first available flight—even a competing airline—when a flight is canceled. However, families have reported that Air Canada representatives have offered only a refund and have rejected reservations on United and Delta flights. An audio recording has even been released showing an employee refusing to book a passenger in business class on an alternative flight.

Gabor Lukasz, president of the Air Passenger Rights Association, says the move is a clear violation of the law and could even lead to criminal charges against Air Canada. Aviation experts say the airline’s disregard for passenger protection rules is a recurring theme.

The Canadian Transport Authority (CTA) said in response to a question from CTV News that it is investigating the issue and monitoring enforcement, but passenger rights activists say the agency's fines are often not a deterrent.

Passengers who have faced delays and problems during the crisis have complained about the lack of improvements in enforcement. Air Canada has not yet issued an official response to these criticisms.

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