Air Canada passengers from London and elsewhere advised to start making alternate arrangements

London travelers impacted by pilots strike Air Canada passengers from London are being advised to start making alternate arrangements - CTV London's Bryan Bicknell reports

Time is running out on a potential work stoppage by Air Canada pilots - that means passengers flying from London International Airport or Toronto Pearson Airport may have to start considering alternate travel plans.

Wallaceburg resident Dorothy MacDonald arrived early to London Airport Friday for her flight to Toronto, to catch an Air Canada flight to Halifax. She said she has not been informed of any contingency plans by the airline.

“But, if I can’t get back, I have to find another mode of transportation, right?” she questioned.

Flying out is one thing, but being able to return without disruption or headaches is quite another.

“It’s a little unnerving, just the inconvenience of feeling stranded,” said another passenger, who spoke to CTV News.

Air Canada says some services like cargo or vacation packages will begin being affected as of Friday. A full shutdown could happen by September 18, as the runway runs out on the labour dispute between the airline and the Air Line Pilots Association.

The airline and pilots’ association will on Sunday be in a position to issue a three-day notice for a strike or a lockout. That’s when the airline says it will begin its plan for a wind-down.

Air Canada third party carriers like Jazz will continue flights.

The regional carrier has three flights departing London daily. Many London Jazz passengers ultimately connect with Air Canada. London International Airport CEO Scott McFadzean said that Air Canada is working with other carriers to accommodate passengers.

“In the event Air Canada Pilots do go on strike and the schedules are impacted, Air Canada is going to do their best to connect passengers with other Star Lines partners or other airlines,” explained McFadzean. “That may not be possible, hence why I’m advising anyone traveling to really stay in touch with the airlines and check schedules on a regular basis,” he said.

With no guarantees, insurance expert RATESDOTCA says passengers that have already purchased Air Canda tickets should review their travel insurance policies.

Key points to look for:

Source: RATESDOTCA

As for traveler Dorothy MacDonald, her return Air Canada flight from Halifax is scheduled for September 23. For now, she’s taking it in stride.

“I don’t have an option, but you know I try not to let things like that bother me,” said MacDonald.