Air Canada has begun cancelling flights days ahead of a possible strike by its pilots, sparking questions among passengers about why the airline is taking action before any labour stoppage has officially begun.

The airline says the early cancellations are part of a “proactive strategy” to manage disruptions and reduce chaos in the event of a strike. By adjusting schedules now, Air Canada hopes to give passengers more time to rebook, seek refunds, or change travel plans, instead of dealing with last-minute cancellations that could leave travellers stranded.

Negotiations between Air Canada and the Air Canada Pilots Association (ACPA) are ongoing, with key issues including wages, scheduling flexibility, and job security. While both parties have expressed a desire to reach a deal, the absence of an agreement and the looming strike deadline have created uncertainty in Canada’s largest airline network.

Industry experts say pre-emptive cancellations are a common tactic in the airline industry during labour disputes. “It’s about controlling the narrative and protecting the brand,” explained aviation analyst Robert Kokonis. “If you wait until a strike is declared, you risk massive operational breakdowns and a PR disaster.”

Passengers affected by the cancellations have taken to social media to express frustration, with some worried about finding alternative flights during peak travel season. Air Canada has said it is offering full refunds or free rebooking for all impacted customers.

The federal government is monitoring the situation closely, as a prolonged strike could disrupt not only leisure travel but also cargo operations, potentially affecting supply chains. Unless a breakthrough is reached in negotiations, more cancellations are expected in the coming days.