Thousands Await Refunds Months After Air Canada Strike
Nearly three months after a labour strike halted Air Canada flights for three days in August, thousands of customers are still waiting for refunds. Among them is Lynda Elstad, who shared her experience while boarding another Air Canada flight this month. She was impacted directly by the disruption.
Company Promises Unfulfilled
Air Canada had committed to reimbursing customers for additional expenses caused by the cancellations, including alternative flight bookings, food, and lodging costs.
“But they (Air Canada) seems to be waiting and waiting,” Elstad said.
Credit Card Charges Add to Customers' Burden
Many of those affected used credit cards to cover their unexpected costs. Gábor Lukács, President of Air Passenger Rights, highlighted the issue:
“That means those who incurred those expenses are paying tens of percent in interest charges on their credit cards, which is making it profoundly troubling.”
Legal Concerns Over Delayed Payments
Lukács also emphasized the legality of the delays, noting that the law requires airlines to respond to refund complaints within 30 days, implying payments must be made promptly as well.
“The law is clear and an airline has to respond to these complaints within 30 days and I would find that response also means payment as well. You cannot take four to six weeks after you respond to remit payment.”
Summary
Months after Air Canada's strike, many customers remain unpaid despite legal requirements, facing ongoing financial strain from delayed reimbursements and credit card interest.