Air Canada has started cancelling hundreds of flights in anticipation of a possible nationwide strike by its 10,000 flight attendants, raising concerns of major travel disruptions for passengers across Canada and internationally.

The airline confirmed that up to 500 flights could be cancelled by Friday, with a full shutdown of operations expected by Saturday if the strike proceeds. The potential walkout follows the union’s 72-hour strike notice, issued earlier this week after contract talks stalled. In response, Air Canada issued its own lockout notice, setting the stage for a tense standoff.

The strike could affect as many as 130,000 passengers per day, right in the middle of the busy summer travel season. Affected travelers are being offered full refunds or the option to rebook, but availability is tight due to peak demand.

Union representatives say the dispute centers on wages, scheduling, and working conditions, arguing that flight attendants have faced stagnant pay despite increased workloads. Air Canada, meanwhile, maintains that it has made a “fair and competitive” offer and is urging the union to resume negotiations to avoid a shutdown.

The Canadian federal government has also stepped in, urging both sides to reach an agreement. However, so far there has been no breakthrough, and the clock is ticking toward the Saturday deadline.

If no deal is reached, the strike will mark one of the largest airline labor disruptions in recent Canadian history, potentially stranding passengers, disrupting cargo operations, and creating ripple effects throughout the aviation sector.

Travelers are advised to check their flight status frequently and consider contingency plans. With tensions running high, the coming hours will be critical in determining whether Canada’s flag carrier can keep its planes in the air or faces a complete standstill.