Air Canada is initiating a phased shutdown of its operations starting Thursday in anticipation of a nationwide strike by over 10,000 flight attendants under the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE). The strike, set to begin around midday on Saturday, August 16, stems from a labor impasse over issues such as unpaid ground duties, low wages, and insufficient working conditions. Despite an airline offer including a 38% pay raise over four years, the union rejected arbitration and is demanding fairer compensation. The move could disrupt up to 130,000 travelers daily, with the airline promising full refunds, rerouting options, and continued service via regional partners that can cover only about 20% of operations.